Chester Nez Last Code Talker Passes Away

Chester Nez the last surviving member of the original 29 Navajo Code Talkers has passed away . The  Navajo Code Talkers developed a code that was used to communicate with American Forces during the war in the Pacific with the Japanese Empire .  It was instrumental in quickening the wars end , saving countless lives.

The language itself was almost completely taken away from the Navajo as it was policy for all native languages in this country . US Government Policy once was to force Natives to give up cultural traditions and language . Forcing children to attend schools away from their homes , this was policy of the United Government and religious groups participated . Ironically the same language attempted to be stripped away was used to fight in our war against fascism and totalitarianism.

The 29 code talkers returned home to their reservation after the war  with little or no recognition for their contributions .

 Chester Nez and four other code walkers finally  received medals in 2001 .

Have often seen the sins of our nation become so emphasized we forget the patriotism and love of freedom that has allowed this country to flourish and become a beacon for freedom and rights .  Well meaning or some with political aspirations use it as a mechanism to divide not unite .    These men  stepped up to plate as true patriots, using the language they hid secretly among themselves ,  helped us quicken the end of war in the Pacific . They saved American lives . As so many Americans have throughout our history , from different walks of life , religions , cultures, and races .

God Bless America and today we thank all those veterans and their families who have allowed the time to move forward in this great nation .

http://www.azcentral.com/story/news/arizona/2014/06/04/arizona-navajo-code-talker-dies-nez/9965201/