Honoring Native Heritage Month and Sacrifices Made by Native American Veterans

Floor Speech

Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of Trickster Art Gallery for its presentation of Native American Veteran artwork in honor of Native Heritage Month and Veterans Day.

During the month of November, we celebrate the ancestry and time-honored traditions of Native Americans, as their contributions have been and continue to be instrumental in the development of our great Nation. Native Americans have helped shape American conservation policy, enriched American culture and have fought gallantly for our country.

From the Revolutionary War to current combat missions, American Indians have played a vital role in the United States Military. In World War II, for example, over 375 Navajo Marines were trained as Code Talkers and famously saved countless lives with their unbreakable codes.

Native Americans continue to serve honorably on behalf of our Nation. According to the Department of Defense, American Indians and Alaska Natives have a greater proportion of Veterans than the general United States population. As a Veteran myself, I understand the great sacrifice and courage of the Native American Veteran community.
I am proud to represent the Eighth Congressional District where the diverse cultures of our great Nation are celebrated.

Source