Congressman Markwayne Mullin (OK-2), member of the Cherokee nation, attended a special United States Capitol ceremony today where Native American code talkers were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, which marks Congress’s highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions. The ceremony was held in Emancipation Hall in the United States Capitol Visitor Center.

Code talkers were a critical asset during World War I and World War II, by providing an unprecedented avenue for message transmission. Code talkers were Native Americans who used their respective tribal languages to communicate coded messages and confuse the enemy.

Having known a code talker himself, Congressman Mullin noted the importance of telling the story of a very special generation.

“Code talkers were courageous individuals who chose to be a part of history and take on a unique role in war,” said Mullin.  “Oklahoma was home to many code talkers including Mr. Wayne Russell, who was a dear family friend and helped me learn Cherokee at a young age.  I consider it a privilege to be from a state of such heritage and heroism.”

Each tribe that participated in the code talkers program received a Congressional Gold Medal. A total of 33 tribes were recognized, 10 being from the state of Oklahoma. Following the Gold Medal Ceremony that recognized tribes as a whole, there was a Silver Medal Ceremony that recognized specific individuals for their service as code talkers. With only one living code talker, family members of departed code talkers accepted the medals on their behalf.

November is Native American Month, thanks to the countless individuals who worked to preserve the memory and culture of the American Indian. Learn more at nativeamericanheritagemonth.gov. 

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