RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Tx –
Native American Indian Heritage Month is celebrated annually in November to honor and recognize the original people of America. Randolph distinguished this month with several events, including storytelling at the elementary school, a powwow at Fort Sam Houston, a poster contest, exhibition dancing and a scholarship essay contest.
"This was the first year we offered a scholarship program," said Michael Redfern, civil engineer career field administrator, Air Force Personnel Center. "The committee thought it fit perfectly with this year's theme, which was 'Telling our Story.' We didn't just want to convey our history to the children of Randolph; we wanted to find out what they had on their minds. We're hoping that in the future we can continue the program and increase the value of the scholarship."
The premise of the essay was American Indian Warrior culture, how it matches military core values and why American Indians should be honored on a military base. The contest was only offered at Randolph High School and there were four applicants. The winner of the contest was Hannah Ringler. Hannah is a senior at RHS and the daughter of Senior Master Sgt. Gordon and Lisa Ringler. Sergeant Ringler is with the 313th Flight Test Flight at Port San Antonio.
"The winner was selected by the NAIH committee," said Mr. Redfern. "She captured the essence of why celebrating NAIH is important on a military base. Her essay was well written and followed the rules we had in place."
*Editor's Note: The below essay was written by the NAIH scholarship winner, Hannah Ringler, Randolph High School student.
"Why is it important to celebrate Native American Heritage Month on a military
installation?"
"My platoon commander always sent me out on patrols. He...probably thought that I could track down the enemy. I don't know for sure, but I guess he figured that Indians were warriors and hunters by nature." - Fox/Creek Korean veteran
With America's population having roots in almost every culture around the world, one of the least recognized or appreciated is that of the Native American. The Native Americans were in America for years before even the earliest pilgrims and have played one of the most substantial roles in America's history, especially in regards to war and military endeavors. Though it is essential to remember other cultures and their contributions to America and its history, it is specifically important for those in the military to celebrate the heritage and contributions of the Native American culture because of their direct connection to the military and its purpose.
Native American culture values qualities such as strength, honor, pride, devotion and wisdom, which all closely resemble the Seven Core Army Values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage. These resemblances prove that the Native American could easily make a valued and effective soldier in the United States Armed Forces; consequently, throughout history, this has proven true. The Native Americans have been active in United States military actions for more than 200 years
and have the highest record of service per capita in comparison to other ethnic groups. For example, in World War II, roughly 44,000 Native Americans fought for the United States, playing significant roles such as helping to raise the flag over Mt. Suribachi after the battle of Iwo Jima and serving as code talkers in the Pacific, creating
a code which was never cracked by the enemy Japanese. Contributions such as these make the Native Americans a valuable addition to the United States military to provide for the common defense of our country.
Besides being recognized for the additions to the security of the nation, the Native Americans should be recognized for their selfless and complete devotion to their country. Though the early Americans pushed the Native Americans off their original land
through the Trail of Tears and the Indian Removal Act of 1830 in pursuance of "Manifest Destiny," the Native Americans still joined the fight with Americans in the Civil War only a few years later and then in the next wars to follow. The Native Americans' devotion to
their land is proven several times over and over again and proves them as an important asset to the United States Armed Forces.
Americans are known to be a people who remember where they came from and those who helped them get there, as evidenced through cultural and heritage appreciation months and presentday foreign relations. Because of this, it is incredibly important that those on a military institution uphold this timed tradition and celebrate the heritage of one of the most impactful cultures in the United States and most influential in upholding the defense of the nation.
Citations
· "Naval History and Heritage Command." Native Americans and the U.S. Military. U.S. Navy, 1996. Web. 29 Nov 2010. history.navy.mil/faqs/faq61-1.htm.
·"Soldier Life." Living the Army Values. Go Army, 1996. Web. 29 Nov 2010.
www.goarmy.com/soldier-life/being-a-soldier/livingthe- army-values.html