Native people seem to be born Warriors. Is this who Creator made them to be, infusing the DNA with the traits of toughness, courage, honor, and a willingness to suffer for the good of others?
Today, as we honor Veterans from all backgrounds, it is quite appropriate to remember and acknowledge the very special contributions Native American Warriors have made.
Fact: Native American people served the United States long before they were given United States Citizenship. Between 1917 and 1918, over 10,000 Native Americans enlisted into the Armed Services to serve in World War I. This was the greatest number of enlisted people from any one ethnic culture group, yet citizenship with the right to vote was not granted to the original inhabitants of the United States until 1924.
Fact: Nearly 20,000 people classified as Native American/Alaskan Native are serving in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force according to the Defense Department’s tally from 2005. By the end of 2006, the Veterans Administration estimated the number of Native American Veterans at 181,361. The National Native American Veterans Association estimates that 22% of Native Americans 18 years and older are Veterans.
The Naval History & Heritage Command website states: “Native American warriors are devoted to the survival of their people and their homeland. If necessary, warriors will lay down their lives for the preservation of their culture.” Probably the most stunning insight in the warrior-drive of Native people is the fact that they are even willing to fight for the military machine that once oppressed and decimated their own people.
“We honor our Veterans for their bravery and because by seeing death on the battlefield, they truly know the greatness of life.” (Words of a Winnebago Elder)
It is said of Veterans that “All gave some, and some gave all.” Some of them made the ultimate sacrifice, literally giving their lives to protect others. This act of extreme love is also lived out and commanded by Creator Jesus, the Sacred Warrior, who said: “There is no greater love than this—that a man should lay down his life for his friends.” (John 5:13)
Many battles faced today are of the spiritual kind. Statistics are overwhelming and devastating. To win the battle against the evils of today, true, selfless, dedicated warriors are needed to combat destruction and decay. These are not won with military weapons but by taking a courageous stand in prayer and service. We are calling on indigenous people everywhere to follow their Creator given identity to be Warriors, following the Great Sacred Warrior Jesus, who gave his life to save ours.
The Naval History & Heritage Command website states: “Native American warriors are devoted to the survival of their people and their homeland. If necessary, warriors will lay down their lives for the preservation of their culture.” Probably the most stunning insight in the warrior-drive of Native people is the fact that they are even willing to fight for the military machine that once oppressed and decimated their own people.
Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima, by Joe Rosenthal / the Associated Press (Copyright was relinquished by AP into the Public Domain)
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