Retreat

Native American singing and drumming are the background for dancers after a retreat ceremony Nov. 4 in front of Bldg. 460. From left; Eddie Two Clouds Zermeno, four-year-old Isaiah Patterson, Walter Chrysler and Eastman Switch, who works in the 76th Maintenance Wing’s plating shop.(Air Force photo/Margo Wright)

Native American Heritage Month celebrated at Tinker

Published Nov. 13, 2008
By Danielle Gregory
Tinker Public Affairs

TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla., -- November marks the national observance of Native American Heritage Month. The Tinker's theme for the month -- "Serving our country, at home and away" -- highlights the fact that Native Americans have participated with merit in United States military actions for more than 200 years.

"Their courage, determination and fighting spirit were recognized by American military leaders as early as the 18th century," said James Ross, Tinker Inter-tribal Council events coordinator and a full-blood Wichita Indian.

The council kicked off the heritage month with a luncheon Nov. 5. The guest speaker was Shawnee native John "Rocky" Barrett, who has served as Citizen Potawatomi Nation chairman since 1985. He has also served the tribe as an elected official for more than 25 years, beginning with his first elected position as vice chairman in 1971.

"Tinker has been a big part of my life. My grandfather started work here in 1941 through World War II and after World War II my uncles worked here as well as several other family members who contributed their services to Tinker throughout the years," said Mr. Barrett.

According to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development estimates, more than 100,000 Native Americans served in World Wars I and II and Vietnam. As the 20th century came to a close, there were nearly 190,000 Native American military veterans.

Currently, there are more than 12,000 Native Americans serving in the U.S. military. Historically, Native Americans have the highest record of military service per capita when compared to other ethnic groups because traits such as strength, bravery, pride and wisdom are commonly associated with those of the Indian warrior.

November was first declared national American Indian Heritage Month in 1990 by President George H. W. Bush.Gregory