Sec. 1082. Sense of Congress on the legacy, contributions, and sacrifices of American Indian and Alaska Natives in the Armed Forces
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Congress finds the following: The United States celebrates Native American History Month each November to recognize and honor the history and achievements of Native Americans. American Indian and Alaska Natives serve in all branches of the Armed Forces, attend all service academies, and defend our country with valiance, pride, and honor. More than 30,000 active duty, reserve, and National Guard members of the Armed Forces identify as Native American. American Indian and Alaska Natives have served and continue to serve in the highest proportions to population than any other ethnic group.
American Indian and Alaska Natives have served in every war, from the Revolutionary War to current overseas conflicts. Native American veterans are Congressional Medal of Honor, Congressional Gold and Silver Medals, Purple Heart, and Bronze Star Medal recipients. American Indian and Alaska Native women serve in Armed Forces in higher proportions than any other ethnic group. Native American Code Talkers and their languages proved an invaluable asset during World Wars I and II.
Ira Hayes, Akimel O’odham
(Pima)helped to raise the American flag on Iwo Jima; Dr. Joseph Medicine Crow, Apsáalooke (Crow), served in WWII and became a war chief. Numerous present and past military aircraft, helicopters, and munitions programs bear the names of Native American tribes and tribal leaders to honor their legacy of martial prowess, including the Apache, Kiowa, Black Hawk, Lakota, Chinook, Huron, Iroquois, Comanche, Cayuse, Chickasaw, Ute, Gray Eagle, Mescalero, Tomahawk, and more. Native American tribes commonly take part in ceremonies alongside military units to bless new aircraft and mark successful inception of new fleets. More than 140,000 veterans across the United States identify as Native American. Each November, the Department of Defense honors the unique and special relationship with tribal communities during Native American Heritage Month. It is the sense of Congress that Congress— recognizes and honors the legacy and contributions of American Indian and Alaska Natives and tribal communities to the military of the United States; and commits to ensuring progress for American Indian and Alaska Native members of the Armed Forces and veterans with regard to representation in senior military leadership positions, improving access to culturally competent resources and services, and supporting families and tribal communities.