Navajo Code Talkers to be restored to U.S. military websites after Navajo Nation speaks out

SALT LAKE CITY – After the removal of content related to the Navajo Code Talkers from U.S. military websites, the Department of Defense announced plans to restore their history. The Navajo Nation sent a letter to the U.S. Army and the DOD to request clarification on the removal and called for continued recognition of the Code Talkers' contributions during World War II. "Recognizing the work of the Navajo Code Talkers is profoundly significant to the Navajo Nation. During World War II, the Navajo Code Talkers made indispensable contributions to American military successes in the Pacific theater," Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren said. The removal of references to the Code Talkers appeared to be part of the new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policies put in place by the current presidential administration. In February, a Pentagon official ordered all military services to remove posts that related to DEI.

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In a Facebook post, Nygren stated that tribal nations are "distinct sovereign entities with their own governments and rights," and that "tribal recognition should not be affected by federal administrative initiatives, including those related to DEI." Nygren announced on Facebook Tuesday that shortly after sending the request, the DOD announced its plan to restore the content. "Their legacy is a cornerstone of American history, and it is essential that their contributions be honored and recognized, not just in military history, but as an enduring symbol of sacrifice and service that shaped the very future of this country," Chrystalyne Curley, speaker with the Navajo Nation, said in the letter. Nygren highlighted that at the time of publication, the U.S. Marine Corps, Air Force, and Navy websites had articles recognizing the Navajo Code Talkers.

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