Serving the High Plains
Serving the High Plains
QCS photo: Thomas Garcia
The Navajo "Code Talkers" Robert Wally and Jack Jones, left, sign the Veteran's Day programs for Madison Osborn and Desarae Ricketson Saturday at the American Legion Post 77 at Logan.
World War II code talkers and Bataan Death March survivors were honored guests at Saturday's Veterans Day ceremony in Logan.
More than 80 residents attended the ceremony hosted by the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 77, featuring two Navajo code talkers as the guest speakers.
"We would not have the lives we have now, if not for the service of these men," said Debbie McClure, auxiliary unit 77 president.
"We are honored to be here to represent the Native Americans who served during World War II," said code talker Robert Wally.
Wally said the Japanese made every attempt to decipher their code, which was used during military engagements in the South Pacific. He said he and fellow code talker Jack Jones were very honored to be received by so many at the American Legion Post 77 at Logan.
"We owe this day to our Veterans; it is our duty to be here," said Post 77 Commander Art Cordova.
Cordova said he was very honored and proud to have the Navajo code talkers and Bataan Death March survivors Melvin C. (Kike) Waltmon and Alfred A. Haws along with their families present for this ceremony. He said the world would have been a far different place for us all if not for the service of these veterans.
"On behalf myself, those in attendance and a most grateful nation, thank you and all the veterans of the armed forces for your service," Cordova said.
McClure said the freedoms we enjoy and our everyday liberties, which we often take for granted, are the result of the sacrifice and dedication of those veterans who served and the bravery of those who are currently serving in our military.