The Pentagon recently reinstated several webpages honoring the vital contributions of Navajo Code Talkers and other Native American veterans. This decision came after backlash from tribal leaders who were upset by the initial removal of this content.
The pages were taken down as part of a broader effort to eliminate military content deemed related to diversity, equity, and inclusion, known as DEI. This initiative follows an executive order from former President Donald Trump that directed the federal government to end DEI programs. Unfortunately, officials at the Defense Department acknowledged that the important material about the Navajo Code Talkers had been mistakenly removed.
Pentagon press secretary John Ullyot affirmed, “In cases where content is deleted—by error or design—we ensure that it is restored to honor our heroes for their service.”
Earlier this week, many users encountered a “404 – Page not found” message when trying to access the Code Talker pages. While some of the content was restored, those connected to Native American Heritage Month remain offline, and many other deleted pages are still unavailable.
A statement from Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren revealed that an AI-driven review process, aimed at detecting DEI-related content, unintentionally led to the removal of references to “Navajo.” Nygren expressed relief that the situation was resolved and reiterated his commitment to maintaining the legacy of the Navajo Code Talkers.
He also noted the significance of the 574 federally recognized tribes, which are sovereign nations, and should not be defined by DEI classifications. This sentiment is echoed by other Native American leaders who have communicated with the Trump administration.
During World War II, the U.S. Marine Corps enlisted 29 Navajo men to develop a coding system based on their unique language. They created a glossary of over 200 terms, allowing them to send crucial military communications without error—much to the frustration of Japanese cryptologists.
The Code Talkers played a significant role in several Marine assaults in the Pacific from 1942 to 1945, contributing to the U.S. victory in the war. Their remarkable service, alongside hundreds of other Native Americans from various tribes who also served as code talkers, remains a significant part of American history.
Among those concerned about the webpage removals was Peter MacDonald, 96, one of the last living Navajo Code Talkers. He emphasized that the code was crucial in saving lives and winning the war, urging for more respect for historical accuracy in communications from the Pentagon.
The Defense Department has since reassured the public that it will not overlook the historic achievements of servicemen and women of color. In addition to reinstating the Code Talker webpages, they also restored content about other notable figures like Jackie Robinson, after previous removals.
Michael Smith, who has ties to a Navajo Code Talker, questioned the rationale behind the removals, suggesting it does not align with the intent of the president’s order.
Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis of the Gila River Indian Community also voiced disappointment, noting that crucial information about Native American veterans, like Ira Hayes, was missing. He worries these removals could be just the beginning of a bigger issue, expressing concerns that current language in executive orders may misrepresent the integrity of diversity programs.
This unfolding situation highlights the importance of honoring and acknowledging the extensive contributions made by Native American veterans and ensuring their stories are preserved in our nation’s history.
