On July 29, 2022, Samuel Sandoval, one of the last remaining Navajo Code Talkers passed away at the age of 98 late Friday at a hospital in Shiprock, New Mexico.
In 2001, Navajo Code Talker Sandoval received the Congressional Silver Medal from President George W. Bush. The 2012 documentary “Naz Bah Ei Bijei: Heart of a Warrior” chronicles Sandoval’s life story and role as a Code Talker.
“Samuel Sandoval, United States Marine, 1st Marine Division World War II Navajo Code Talker, was my friend. We shared many conversations. Samuel is being mourned today, and will be remembered by everyone who knew him. His family will grieve, and we yet here are privileged to walk through this time with them, to come alongside and hold, to come near and speak not, to just simply be there,” stated Regan Hawthorne, Navajo Code Talkers Museum board member.
“Samuel had been guiding the newly organized Navajo Code Talkers Museum Board of Directors as the Vice-Chair since May of 2020. His voice was one of reason; his vision was that of attainment. His dream was of a Museum to honor and teach. Samuel pursued that which is right,” continued Hawthorne.
“The Navajo Code Talkers Museum, Inc. pauses to reflect on the man Samuel was as we look to satisfying his vision in the creation of a National Navajo Code Talkers Museum. And while we offer our passionate condolences to his wife and caregiver, Malula Sandoval and family, please join with us in remembering and giving thanks that … such men lived,” concluded Hawthorne.
Navajo Code Talker Sandoval was Zuni Clan and born for Red Cheek Clan, he was originally from Kimbeto, NM, near Chaco Canyon. After graduating from school, he enlisted into USMC on March 26, 1943 and after completing basic training he spent 20 weeks at Camp Pendleton, California, learning the Navajo code used in South Pacific Theater.
Details of his funeral service will be coordinated by his family, donations are welcome for his funeral expenses at www.NationalNavajoCodeTalkersDay.com and [here].
Navajo Code Talker Samuel Sandoval has passed away at the age of 98. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1943 to 1946. He was 18 at the time of his enlistment & was honorably discharged on Jan. 26, 1946. His family is raising money for funeral expenses https://t.co/i1jykdeVSj pic.twitter.com/Gnm9xctqD4
— Shondiin Silversmith⁷ (@DiinSilversmith) July 30, 2022