As we recognize both Native American Heritage Month and Veterans Day, we honor the generations of Native Americans who have served in the United States military.
Military service among Native peoples long predates the founding of the United States. According to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian, many Tribal Nations maintained longstanding warrior traditions in which service was closely connected to protecting family, community, and culture. These traditions emphasized values such as courage, sacrifice, humility, and service to others—principles that continue to resonate today.
A Tradition That Spans Generations
When Native Americans joined the U.S. Armed Forces, many carried these values with them. In fact, Native Americans have served in every major conflict involving the United States, from the Revolutionary War through present-day military operations. Remarkably, thousands of Native Americans volunteered to serve during World War I, even before all Native people were granted U.S. citizenship through the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924.
The reasons Native Americans serve are often deeply personal. The Smithsonian’s Why We Serve initiative notes that many Native veterans describe military service as an extension of traditional responsibilities to protect and care for their communities. For some, service is a way of honoring family members who served before them. For others, it reflects a commitment to contributing to something larger than themselves.
The Legacy of the Code Talkers
Among the most recognized Native servicemembers are the Native Code Talkers. During both World War I and World War II, Native soldiers used Indigenous languages to transmit military messages that enemy forces could not decipher. The Navajo Code Talkers, whose work in the Pacific Theater became especially renowned, helped provide secure communications during critical military operations. Their contributions demonstrated not only military skill but also the enduring strength of Native languages and cultures.
Continuing a Legacy of Service
Native military service continues today. According to the USO, Native Americans serve in the armed forces at a higher rate than any other ethnic group in the United States. Native veterans serve in every branch of the military, carrying forward a tradition of service that spans generations.
As we reflect on Veterans Day this November, Native American Heritage Month offers an important opportunity to recognize the lasting contributions of Native Americans to our nation.
