Speaker Morgan issues Veterans Day message

Copyright © 2008
Gallup Independent
By Diné Bureau

WINDOW ROCK — Today the Navajo Nation will pause for Veterans Day to honor and acknowledge the dedicated service of thousands of servicemen and women who have served the United States through their military service.

In a Veterans Day message, Navajo Nation Council Speaker Lawrence T. Morgan urged all Navajo to reflect on the sacrifices of their veterans and to thank them for their dedication.

“We should honor all soldiers of all military branches for their selfless service to our nation this Veterans Day,” Morgan said. “Our brave warriors in the armed forces continue a long legacy, a legacy on behalf of the Navajo Nation.

“Let us remember our servicemen and women in our daily prayers, because they provide the protection and freedom that we all enjoy — our prayers have sustained us as a people since time immemorial. Let us salute our Navajo warriors, and all veterans, for their sacrifices in preserving the blessings of freedom and the limitless opportunities for people around the world, the same opportunities that we may take for granted.”

Morgan said Navajo also should pause to remember its warriors from 1868 during the Long Walk, referred to as Hweeldi.

“Our past Navajo warriors preceded the bravery of our current veterans, such as Navajo chiefs Manuelito, Barboncito, Narbona, Ganado Mucho and the many others who provided safety for the Navajo Nation.”

Morgan encouraged all veterans to take pride in their role, knowing that the Navajo Nation is eternally grateful for the service they have performed.

“I would like to say thank you to all veterans and active-duty servicemen and women out there — whether far from home or here in the Unites States,” he said.

“Thank you for your contributions and for your countless sacrifices to our Nation. We are very proud of the great work that you have done to carry on the long legacy of valor and service that many Navajo warriors before you have established.”