Native Warriors
Honoring Native American Service
Native Americans have served with distinction in every major conflict in U.S. history, from the Revolutionary War to modern-day operations. Their contributions span combat, intelligence, aviation, medical support, and leadership roles. This document honors their legacy, listing notable individuals, their tribal affiliations, ranks, decorations, and the respect they earned from their commanders and fellow soldiers.
William Alchesay - Congressional Medal of Honor
First Sergeant
A Company, 6th U.S. Cavalry, Indian Scouts
May 17, 1853 – August 6, 1928
During World War II, Native Americans served in every branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, including:
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U.S. Army – Over 21,767 Native Americans served in the Army, participating in major campaigns across Europe and the Pacific.
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U.S. Navy – Approximately 1,910 Native Americans served in the Navy, including roles aboard ships and in naval aviation.
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U.S. Marine Corps – Around 874 Native Americans served in the Marines, notably including the Navajo Code Talkers, whose unbreakable code was vital in the Pacific Theater.
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U.S. Coast Guard – At least 121 Native Americans served in the Coast Guard during WWII.
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Women’s Auxiliary Branches – Over 800 Native American women joined the war effort through branches like:
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WACS (Women’s Army Corps)
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WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service – Navy)
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Women Marines
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SPARs (Coast Guard Women’s Reserve)
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WASPs (Women Airforce Service Pilots)
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Native Americans served alongside white soldiers, as they were not segregated like other minority groups. Their service was marked by high volunteer rates, bravery, and cultural pride.
World War I: The First Warriors Abroad
Over 12,000 Native Americans volunteered to serve in WWI, even before they were granted U.S. citizenship in 1924. Their bravery was legendary, with many serving as scouts, snipers, and code talkers. The Choctaw Code Talkers pioneered the use of native languages to transmit secure battlefield communications, a tactic that would be expanded in later wars.
World War II: Code Talkers and Combat Heroes
More than 44,000 Native Americans served in WWII. The Navajo Code Talkers became iconic, using their language to create an unbreakable code that helped win the war in the Pacific. Tribes like the Lakota, Apache, and Comanche contributed warriors, medics, and engineers. Their service was marked by fierce loyalty and exceptional skill.​​​​​
Native American soldiers actively served in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Their contributions included:
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Navajo Code Talkers, whose unbreakable code was crucial in battles such as Iwo Jima and Okinawa.
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Native troops served alongside white soldiers in non-segregated units, often in frontline roles.
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The first Native American casualty of WWII occurred during the attack on Pearl Harbor, marking their early involvement in the Pacific conflict.
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General Douglas MacArthur met with Native troops including Navajo, O'odham, and Pawnee soldiers in the Pacific Theater.
Korean War: Quiet Courage
Thousands of Native Americans served in Korea, continuing their tradition of military service. Though less publicized, their contributions were vital. Native soldiers often served in frontline infantry units, drawing on their cultural emphasis on endurance, resilience, and tactical awareness.​
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“I have seen that in any great undertaking; it is not enough for a man to depend simply upon himself.” – Lone Man (Isna-la-wica), Teton
Vietnam Conflict: Warriors in the Shadows
The Vietnam War was a defining moment in U.S. history, marked by the service of individuals from diverse backgrounds, including a significant yet often overlooked group—Native Americans. Over 42,000 Native Americans are estimated to have served during the Vietnam era (1964–1975), a notable figure given their small population size.
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Their motivations for enlistment were deeply rooted in cultural traditions and community values. Military service has long been respected in Native communities, symbolizing honor, warrior heritage, and family legacy. Additionally, enlistment offered practical benefits such as economic opportunities and access to education, which were limited in many Native American communities.
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This legacy of service reflects both a commitment to their country and a continuation of ancestral warrior traditions, leaving a lasting impact on Native American identity and history.
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Native American enlistment rates during Vietnam were among the highest per capita of any ethnic group. Many served in elite units such as Special Forces and Long-Range Reconnaissance Patrols (LRRPs). Their deep connection to land and survival skills made them natural scouts and jungle fighters. Despite facing discrimination, they returned home with honor and pride. ​As of June 30, 2025, the total number of names inscribed on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall is 58,281. This includes those who died or remain missing in action during the Vietnam War. There are 232 names on the Wall that have been identified as Native American or Alaska Native service members who died in the Vietnam War.
Cultural Contributions and Achievements
Congressional Medal of Honor Society
World War II - U.S. Army - ERNEST "CHIEF" CHILDERS
RANK: SECOND LIEUTENANT (HIGHEST RANK: COLONEL)
CONFLICT/ERA: WORLD WAR II
UNIT/COMMAND: COMPANY C, 180TH INFANTRY, 45TH INFANTRY DIVISION MILITARY SERVICE BRANCH: U.S. ARMY MEDAL OF HONOR ACTION DATE: SEPTEMBER 22, 1943 MEDAL OF HONOR ACTION PLACE: OLIVETO, ITALY
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Warrior Ethos: Native cultures emphasize bravery, sacrifice, and protection of community values mirrored in military service.
Ceremonial Traditions: Many Native veterans blend military honors with tribal ceremonies, such as powwows, eagle feather presentations, and warrior dances.
Veterans Advocacy: Native communities have built strong support networks for veterans, including healing lodges, memorials, and cultural reintegration programs.
Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future
Native American Indians have not only fought for the United States—they have enriched its military legacy with their unique cultural heritage. Their stories are a testament to the enduring strength of tribal nations and the unbreakable bond between warrior and homeland.
"We are warriors not because we fight, but because we protect." — Traditional Native Proverb