This Veterans Day, I’m reflecting on a personal journey I took recently at the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C. As I explored the exhibits, I was struck by the depth of Native American military service and the resilience of the veterans whose stories filled the museum. Though I had always known of Native Americans’ contributions to our country, seeing these artifacts, hearing their stories, and learning of their unique service traditions left a profound impact on me.

One of the most powerful lessons I took away was the enduring presence of the warrior spirit among Native nations. Many Native Americans have served in the U.S. military as an extension of their cultural identity, continuing a tradition of warriorhood that spans generations. For these veterans, military service is not just about defending the nation but also protecting their ancestral homelands. This connection between the past and present adds a rich layer of meaning to their contributions and sacrifices.

The museum illuminated this warrior tradition and its evolution over time. For instance, I learned about the legendary Navajo Code Talkers from World War II. Members of the Navajo Nation, along with Comanche and Choctaw soldiers, were recruited for their native languages, which became unbreakable codes for secure military communications. These codes were instrumental during critical battles, especially in the Pacific, and their work remains one of the most celebrated examples of Native American contributions to the U.S. war effort​.

But the legacy of Native American military service goes far beyond World War II. As early as the Spanish-American War, Native Americans played pivotal roles in combat. Men like William Pollock, a Pawnee, fought with distinction as part of Theodore Roosevelt’s Rough Riders in Cuba, and Pollock’s bravery during the charge up San Juan Hill was widely recognized both by his people and by Roosevelt himself​. These warriors carried with them a rich tradition of protecting their communities, and their service in various military conflicts, from World War I to Vietnam and the Middle East, is a testament to their resilience​.

As I walked through the museum, I couldn’t help but reflect on how these stories connect to broader ideas of service and sacrifice. Native American veterans have navigated complex histories—often marked by injustice and displacement—yet they have continued to serve with honor and courage. Their commitment to their homeland and communities is unwavering, even when the battlegrounds have changed.

I encourage everyone to visit this museum, to engage with these stories firsthand, and to reflect on how the warrior spirit, resilience, and the values of service can inspire us all. These veterans offer us lessons on dedication and survival, and their stories remain as relevant today as ever.