Welcome to the Navajo Code Talker Memorial in Phoenix, Arizona. This remarkable site pays tribute to the bravery and ingenuity of the Navajo code talkers, who played a pivotal role in securing victory for the Allies during World War II. As you stand here, imagine the courage of the Navajo men who developed an unbreakable code, using their native language to transmit secret military messages.
The idea of using the Navajo language for military communication was proposed by Philip Johnston, a World War I veteran who had grown up on a Navajo reservation. In 1942, the first group of 29 Navajo recruits completed their training and went on to develop a complex code that was never deciphered by enemy forces. These code talkers were instrumental in major battles across the Pacific, including the famous Battle of Iwo Jima.
This memorial features a 16-foot bronze statue of a Navajo code talker, kneeling with a radio in hand, symbolizing the critical role they played in the war. The statue stands in the Wesley Bolin Memorial Plaza, in front of the Arizona State Capitol, and was dedicated on February 28, 2008. The dedication ceremony was a moving event, attended by surviving code talkers, their families, and tribal leaders.
The Navajo code talkers were not only skilled communicators but also brave soldiers who faced the dangers of the battlefield while ensuring the security of their messages. Their contributions were kept secret for many years, only being declassified in 1968. Today, this memorial serves as a testament to their courage and the enduring legacy of their service.
Through this story, the monument honors the cultural heritage of the Navajo people and their unique contribution to world history. As you take in the memorial, reflect on the remarkable history of these heroes and the powerful impact of their service.
