KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) proudly recognizes November as National Native American Heritage Month and joins a grateful nation in honoring our Indigenous service members and veterans whose courage, skill and devotion to country have helped to defend the United States for more than two and a half centuries.

The monthly observance dates back to 1990, when Congress passed Pub. L. No. 101-343 and President George H.W. Bush issued Presidential Proclamation 6230, designating November 1990 as “National American Indian Heritage Month,” paying tribute to the rich history and culture of Native American tribes. Nearly every president since has issued a formal proclamation recognizing the invaluable contributions of Native Americans.

Native Americans have fought alongside their fellow patriots in every war since the American Revolution, when Indigenous allies stood with the Continental Army. In World War I, approximately 12,000 Native Americans served, many before Congress recognized them as citizens in 1924. During World War II, more than 44,000 answered the call, including the Navajo Code Talkers, who used a language many had been discouraged from speaking as children to create a code our enemies were never able to break.

They have served with distinction, earning every major combat award, including the Medal of Honor. Despite returning home to face barriers to full citizenship rights, many continued to serve, and today Native Americans serve in the Armed Forces at one of the highest rates per capita of any group in America. Their service has made our military stronger, bringing adaptability, resilience, tactical expertise and a deep sense of duty and community that have strengthened units in every era.

The VFW encourages all Americans to use National Native American Heritage Month to learn more about the history, culture and contributions of Native American veterans. On behalf of the more than 1.3 million members of the VFW and its Auxiliary, we proudly honor our fellow brothers and sisters-in-arms from the tribal nations, salute their immeasurable sacrifices and remain steadfast in ensuring their legacy of service is never forgotten.

editor’s add: In Alaska, our natives from the Southeast, the Tlingit native nation were also code talkers during WWII. Our Sitka American Legion is still researching for more who served in this capacity. As a historian, Alaska natives have fought in every one of America’s wars, serving bravely with many of those great men and women returning to their villages becoming the community leaders of today. Thank you for all who served and continue to serve!