When you think of Alaska’s World War II history, the first thing that might come to mind is the Japanese occupations on Attu and Kiska islands far along the Aleutian Chain. But here is Sitka, a different chapter was unfolding–one of strategic importance and untold heroism. As the hub of military activity in Southeast Alaska, complete with a Naval Air Station and 30,000 personnel, Sitka was home to the Tlingit Code Talkers. While you may have heard of the Navajo Code Talkers, the Tlingit Code Talkers have only recently been recognized for their bravery during WWII. These six men–Richard Bean Sr., Robert “Jeff” David Sr., Mark Jacobs Jr., Harvey Jacobs, George Lewis Jr., and Louis Minard–used their native Tlingit language to send crucial military information that was impossible for the enemy to decode. Commander Vince Winter at the American Legion Post 13 explains: “These Code Talkers created the only unbroken code in history. What makes it even more significant is that these men were being punished by the Government for speaking their native language in boarding schools, yet during WWII, the Government relied on that very language to keep America safe. It’s an important piece of history, and many of these men kept it a secret–even from their families–until they were on their deathbeds.”
During a visit to Sitka, one of the best places to connect with this story is the American Legion Post 13, www.sitkapost13.org, 205 Lincoln Street, where Commander Vince Winter has curated a display case dedicated to the Tlingit Code Talkers. Here you’ll find artifacts such as pins, a working radio used by the Code Talkers, commemorative bronze coin, and biographies of the six men. This display offers a unique opportunity to reflect on Sitka’s WWII history and pay tribute to these unsung heroes. Also, in Anchorage at the Alaska Veterans Museum at 411 W. 4th Ave, Suite 2A, www.alaskaveterans.org, we have oral histories from the Alaska Scouts and members of the Alaska Territorial Guard as well many Alaskan military who help build this fantastic State. We are open in the Winter, Wed – Sat from 10-5p and the Summer Mon-Sat from 10-5p. Come see this museum of our Alaska heritage that the military helped build from the American Civil War to present times.
Alaska Day – Reconciliation Day in Sitka: Sitka is a place where history and culture run deep. It’s not only known for its WWII legacy, but it’s also the birthplace of modern-day Alaska and the ancestral home of the Tlingit people. One of the best times to experience this rich history is during Alaska Day on October 18th, when the transfer of Alaska from Russia to the United States is commemorated with a week-long festival of parades, reenactments, and community events. For the Tlingit people, this day is also known as Reconciliation Day. It is a time to mourn the loss of their land, reconcile feelings associated with this event, and take steps toward healing. Whether you’re visiting during the Alaska Day Festival or exploring Sitka at another time of the year, the citizens of Sitka encourage everyone to pay a visit to the Tlingit Code Talker display at the American Legion Post 13, immerse yourself in local events, and truly connect with the stories that make Sitka so unique.