The Navajo Code Talkers will represent the Navajo Nation and entire Indian Country in the 58th Presidential Inaugural parade in Washington D.C. on January 20, according to the 23rd Navajo Nation Council.
“On behalf of the Navajo Nation Council, we thank the inaugural planning committee for recognizing and honoring our Diné warriors who have sacrificed a great deal for the entire country and we look forward to supporting them during the inaugural events,” stated Speaker LoRenzo Bates.
The Code Talkers were invited by the presidential inaugural committee to represent the Navajo Nation in the Inaugural parade that will take place in Washington D.C. following the swearing-in of President-elect Donald J. Trump and Vice President-elect Michael R. Pence near the United States Capitol.
“It is appropriate for our country to honor our Nation’s Code Talkers who are recognized around the world for their service and for helping to protect our homelands during World War II,” said Council Delegate Davis Filfred, who is also a Marine Corps veteran.
“Working now on the National Codetalkers Memorial and meeting with and gaining the historical insight from the remaining Codetalkers within and around my district has been an honor, and the honor of being invited to participate in the inaugural parade is fitting,” stated veteran and member of the Apache County Board of Supervisors, Doyel Shamley.
Former Arizona State Sen. Carlyle Begay, who serves on the planning committee, confirmed that the Code Talkers had been invited and will participate in the parade.
“The legacy of the Navajo Code Talkers are long remembered and honored in American history. These warriors have long been nationally praised for their valued contributions to saving many lives and our way of life today. Their participation in the Inaugural parade highlights their contribution of Native American culture and language of the Navajo people. In addition to the promises that were made by our nation to all our Veterans who have and are still serving our country today,” stated former Sen. Begay.