On the recordJune 9, 2010
Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the life of a true American hero. On May 28, we lost another of the last surviving Navajo code talkers: Reverend Lemuel Yazzie of Whitecone, Arizona. Navajo code talkers saved the lives of countless Americans during World War II and the Korean War by using Dine to help the Marines communicate without risk of interception by the enemy. Reverend Yazzie served bravely and honorably as part of this legendary group. After leaving the military, he kept giving back, serving for years as a missionary, staying involved with community work, and helping organize a committee to aid workers suffering from the effects of uranium exposure. An active member of the Navajo Cold Talker Association, Reverend Yazzie was dedicated to recognizing all Dine fighting men and women have done for this country. We must follow his lead. In his honor, I will continue my efforts to keep our promises to veterans in Navajo Country and across the Indian Nation. ____________________
