Navajo Nation has lost another Navajo Code Talker, Ernest Yazhe who bravely served the United States of America in World War II. Yazhe served in the U.S. Marine Corps with courage, honor and distinction from 1942 to February 1946 when he was honorably discharged.
Yazhe was stationed and trained as a Code Talker in New Caledonia and fought as a Navajo Code Talker in both Guam and Okinawa Vice President Jonathan Nez said the Navajo Nation is mourning the loss of not only a true American hero, but a role model and positive example for the Navajo people.
“Our beloved Navajo Code Talkers are among the greatest generation of American citizens that put their lives on the line during World War II in defense of freedom and democracy,” he said. “The Navajo language was the secret weapon that brought victory to the Allied Forces and ended the war in the Pacific.”
“OPVP salutes his heroic service and offers heartfelt condolences and prayers to his family and friends,” Vice President Nez added.
President Russell Begaye and Vice President Nez signed and issued a proclamation for all flags to be flown at half-staff in honor and memory of the late Ernest Yazhe on Tuesday, January 19. Flags will remain at half-staff from sunrise Jan. 19 to sundown on Jan. 22.
President Begaye said, “It is always a great loss when one of our iconic Navajo Code Talkers leaves us. Mr. Yazhe was honored and revered not only by our Navajo people but also honored and recognized on a national level.”
“Our world as it exists today would not be the same had it not been for our Code Talkers and for this we will forever be grateful,” said President Begaye. “We honor him and wish him God’s speed into eternal life.”
The Proclamation will be presented to the family during the interment service of Ernest Yazhe.