Topics - Native Americans in the Korean War

 
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Honoring Native Americans
Who Served During the Korean War

 

Introduction

About 10,000 Native Americans served in the Korean War, including many who had been World War II veterans.  Of those, some 194 died in service to their country.  In addition to three Medal of Honor recipients, other Native Americans received Bronze, Silver, and lesser meritorious awards for bravery.  As hard as we have tried to provide a comprehensive guide to our Native American heroes, this page of the KWE will not be fully complete without the assistance of members of the general public who can provide further information to us about Native American Korean War veterans.  Native Hawaiians and Native Alaskans are included on this Native American page.  To add information to this page of the Korean War Educator, contact Lynnita@thekwe.org.

Most recent update to this page: May 28, 2024

The publication of this Topics page was made possible by
a grant from the Illinois Humanities Council.


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Award Recipients - Native Americans

Most Decorated - Pascal C. Poolaw Sr.


Pascal C. Poolaw Sr.

The most decorated American Indian was a Kiowa from Oklahoma--Pascal Cleatus Poolaw Sr.  He was born January 29, 1922, in Apache, Oklahoma, and married Irene Chalepah on March 15, 1940.  They were parents of four sons.  Poolaw joined the Army in 1942 and received his first Purple Heart and first Silver Star in Belgium.  He served in Korea with Company L and received two more Silver Stars and a Distinguished Service Cross in Korea.  He retired from the Army in 1962, but rejoined the Army in 1967 during the Vietnam War.  He was deployed to Vietnam on May 31, 1967 and was the 1st Sergeant of C Company, 26th Infantry Regiment when he was ambushed and killed.  He received his fourth Silver Star posthumously.  He received a total of 42 medals and citations during his three-war military career.

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Medal of Honor

  • Barfoot, Van Thomas (World War II award) 


Van Thomas Barfoot

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty on 23 May 1944, near Carano, Italy. With his platoon heavily engaged during an assault against forces well entrenched on commanding ground, 2d Lt. Barfoot (then Tech. Sgt.) moved off alone upon the enemy left flank. He crawled to the proximity of 1 machinegun nest and made a direct hit on it with a hand grenade, killing 2 and wounding 3 Germans. He continued along the German defense line to another machinegun emplacement, and with his tommygun killed 2 and captured 3 soldiers. Members of another enemy machinegun crew then abandoned their position and gave themselves up to Sgt. Barfoot. Leaving the prisoners for his support squad to pick up, he proceeded to mop up positions in the immediate area, capturing more prisoners and bringing his total count to 17. Later that day, after he had reorganized his men and consolidated the newly captured ground, the enemy launched a fierce armored counterattack directly at his platoon positions. Securing a bazooka, Sgt. Barfoot took up an exposed position directly in front of 3 advancing Mark VI tanks. From a distance of 75 yards his first shot destroyed the track of the leading tank, effectively disabling it, while the other 2 changed direction toward the flank. As the crew of the disabled tank dismounted, Sgt. Barfoot killed 3 of them with his tommygun. He continued onward into enemy terrain and destroyed a recently abandoned German fieldpiece with a demolition charge placed in the breech. While returning to his platoon position, Sgt. Barfoot, though greatly fatigued by his Herculean efforts, assisted 2 of his seriously wounded men 1,700 yards to a position of safety. Sgt. Barfoot's extraordinary heroism, demonstration of magnificent valor, and aggressive determination in the face of pointblank fire are a perpetual inspiration to his fellow soldiers.

[KWE Note: Colonel Barfoot was born June 15, 1919 in Edinburg, Mississippi.  His birth name was Van Thurman Barfoot.  His grandmother was a Choctaw.  Barfoot served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.  He died March 2, 2012 in Richmond, Virginia.]

  • Burris, SFC Tony Kenneth  


Tony Kenneth Burris

Rank and organization: Sergeant First Class, U.S. Army, Company L, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division. Place and date: vicinity of Mundung-ni, Korea 8 and 9 October 1951. Entered service at: Blanchard, Okla. Birth: Blanchard, Oklahoma.  He was a member of the Choctaw tribe.

G.O. No.: 84, 5 September 1952. Citation: Sfc. Burris, a member of Company L, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty. On 8 October, when his company encountered intense fire from an entrenched hostile force, Sfc. Burris charged forward alone, throwing grenades into the position and destroying approximately 15 of the enemy. On the following day, spearheading a renewed assault on enemy positions on the next ridge, he was wounded by machine gun fire but continued the assault, reaching the crest of the ridge ahead of his unit and sustaining a second wound. Calling for a 57mm. recoilless rifle team, he deliberately exposed himself to draw hostile fire and reveal the enemy position. The enemy machine gun emplacement was destroyed. The company then moved forward and prepared to assault other positions on the ridge line. Sfc. Burris, refusing evacuation and submitting only to emergency treatment, joined the unit in its renewed attack but fire from hostile emplacement halted the advance. Sfc. Burris rose to his feet, charged forward and destroyed the first emplacement with its heavy machine gun and crew of 6 men. Moving out to the next emplacement, and throwing his last grenade which destroyed this position, he fell mortally wounded by enemy fire. Inspired by his consummate gallantry, his comrades renewed a spirited assault which overran enemy positions and secured Hill 605, a strategic position in the battle for "Heartbreak Ridge," Sfc. Burris' indomitable fighting spirit, outstanding heroism, and gallant self-sacrifice reflect the highest glory upon himself, the infantry and the U.S. Army.

  • George, Pfc. Charles 


    Charles George


    Rank and organization: Private First Class, U.S. Army, Company C, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Songnae-dong, Korea, 30 November 1952. Entered service at: Whittier, North Carolina. Born: 23 August 1932, Cherokee, North Carolina.  He was a member of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee tribe.  He attended the Indian School on the Qualla Boundary of Western North Carolina, and then enlisted in the Army at the age of 18.  His brother was Norman George, a World War II Marine (1927-1994).

    G.O. NO.: 19, 18 March 1954. Citation: Pfc. George, a member of Company C, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy on the night of 30 November 1952. He was a member of a raiding party committed to engage the enemy and capture a prisoner for interrogation. Forging up the rugged slope of the key terrain feature, the group was subjected to intense mortar and machine gun fire and suffered several casualties. Throughout the advance, he fought valiantly and, upon reaching the crest of the hill, leaped into the trenches and closed with the enemy in hand-to-hand combat. When friendly troops were ordered to move back upon completion of the assignment, he and 2 comrades remained to cover the withdrawal. While in the process of leaving the trenches a hostile soldier hurled a grenade into their midst. Pfc. George shouted a warning to 1 comrade, pushed the other soldier out of danger, and, with full knowledge of the consequences, unhesitatingly threw himself upon the grenade, absorbing the full blast of the explosion. Although seriously wounded in this display of valor, he refrained from any outcry which would divulge the position of his companions. The 2 soldiers evacuated him to the forward aid station and shortly thereafter he succumbed to his wound. Pfc. George's indomitable courage, consummate devotion to duty, and willing self-sacrifice reflect the highest credit upon himself and uphold the finest traditions of the military service.
     
  • Harvey, Capt. Raymond


Raymond Harvey
(Click picture for a larger view)

Rank and organization: Captain, U.S. Army, Company C, 17th Infantry Regiment. Place and date: Vicinity of Taemi-Dong, Korea, 9 March 1951. Entered service at: Pasadena, Calif. Born: 1 March 1920 Ford City, Pennsylvania.  He was a member of the Chickasaw tribe.

G.O. No.: 67, 2 August 1951. Citation: Capt. Harvey Company C, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action. When his company was pinned down by a barrage of automatic weapons fire from numerous well-entrenched emplacements, imperiling accomplishment of its mission, Capt. Harvey braved a hail of fire and exploding grenades to advance to the first enemy machine gun nest, killing its crew with grenades. Rushing to the edge of the next emplacement, he killed its crew with carbine fire. He then moved the 1st Platoon forward until it was again halted by a curtain of automatic fire from well fortified hostile positions. Disregarding the hail of fire, he personally charged and neutralized a third emplacement. Miraculously escaping death from intense crossfire, Capt. Harvey continued to lead the assault. Spotting an enemy pillbox well camouflaged by logs, he moved close enough to sweep the emplacement with carbine fire and throw grenades through the openings, annihilating its 5 occupants. Though wounded he then turned to order the company forward, and, suffering agonizing pain, he continued to direct the reduction of the remaining hostile positions, refusing evacuation until assured that the mission would be accomplished. Capt. Harvey's valorous and intrepid actions served as an inspiration to his company, reflecting the utmost glory upon himself and upholding the heroic traditions of the military service.
  • Kaho'ohanohano, Pfc. Anthony 


Anthony Kaho'ohanohano

This Native Hawaiian was born July 22, 1930 in Maui, Hawaii.  A member of Company H, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, he was killed in action on September 1, 1951.  His Distinguished Service Cross was upgraded to a Medal of Honor and presented to his family by President Barack Obama.

Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty Private First Class Anthony T. Kaho'ohanohano, Company H, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy in the vicinity of Chupa-ri, Korea, on 1 September 1951. On that date, Private First Class Kaho'ohanohano was in charge of a machine-gun squad supporting the defensive positioning of Company F when a numerically superior enemy force launched a fierce attack. Because of the enemy's overwhelming numbers, friendly troops were forced to execute a limited withdrawal. As the men fell back, Private First Class Kaho'ohanohano ordered his squad to take up more defensible positions and provide covering fire for the withdrawing friendly force. Although having been wounded in the shoulder during the initial enemy assault, Private First Class Kaho'ohanohano gathered a supply of grenades and ammunition and returned to his original position to face the enemy alone. As the hostile troops concentrated their strength against his emplacement in an effort to overrun it, Private First Class Kaho'ohanohano fought fiercely and courageously, delivering deadly accurate fire into the ranks of the onrushing enemy. When his ammunition was depleted, he engaged the enemy in hand-to-hand combat until he was killed. Private First Class Kaho'ohanohano's heroic stand so inspired his comrades that they launched a counterattack that completely repulsed the enemy. Upon reaching Private First Class Kaho'ohanohano's emplacement, friendly troops discovered 11 enemy soldiers lying dead in front of the emplacement and two inside it, killed in hand-to-hand combat. Private First Class Kaho'ohanohano's extraordinary heroism and selfless devotion to duty are in keeping with the finest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, the 7th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

  • Keeble, MSgt. Woodrow Wilson 


Woodrow Wilson Keeble

He was born May 16, 1917 in Waubey, South Dakota and died January 28, 1982.  He is buried in Lake Transverse Indian Reservation Cemetery, Sisseton, South Dakota.  He was a Dakota Sioux.

Citation: Master Sergeant Woodrow W. Keeble distinguished himself by acts of gallantry and intrepedity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty in action with an armed enemy near Sangsan-ni, Korea on 20 October 1951. On that day, Master Sergeant Keeble was an acting platoon leader for the support platoon in Company G, 19th Infantry, in the attack on Hill 765, a steep and rugged position that was well defended by the enemy. Leading the support platoon, Master Sergeant Keeble saw that the attacking elements had become pinned down on the slope by heavy enemy fire from three well-fortified and strategically placed enemy positions. With complete disregard for his personal safety, Master Sergeant Keeble dashed forward and joined the pinned-down platoon. Then, hugging the ground, Master Sergeant Keeble crawled forward alone until he was in close proximity to one of the hostile machine-gun emplacements. Ignoring the heavy fire that the crew trained on him, Master Sergeant Keeble activated a grenade and threw it with great accuracy, successfully destroying the position. Continuing his one-man assault, he moved to the second enemy position and destroyed it with another grenade. Despite the fact that the enemy troops were now directing their firepower against him and unleashing a shower of grenades in a frantic attempt to stop his advance, he moved forward against the third hostile emplacement and skillfully neutralized the remaining enemy position. As his comrades moved forward to join him, Mater Sergeant Keeble continued to direct accurate fire against nearby trenches, inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy. Inspired by his courage, Company G successfully moved forward and seized its important objective. The extraordinary courage, selfless service, and devotion to duty displayed that day by Master Sergeant Keeble was an inspiration to all around him and reflected great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.

  • Pilila'au, Herbert Kailieha 


Herbert Kailieha Pilila'au

Pfc. Pililaau, a member of Company C, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and outstanding courage above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. The enemy sent wave after wave of fanatical troops against his platoon which held a key terrain feature on "Heartbreak Ridge." Valiantly defending its position, the unit repulsed each attack until ammunition became practically exhausted and it was ordered to withdraw to a new position. Voluntarily remaining behind to cover the withdrawal, Pfc. Pililaau fired his automatic weapon into the ranks of the assailants, threw all his grenades and, with ammunition exhausted, closed with the foe in hand-to-hand combat, courageously fighting with his trench knife and bare fists until finally overcome and mortally wounded. When the position was subsequently retaken, more than 40 enemy dead were counted in the area he had so valiantly defended. His heroic devotion to duty, indomitable fighting spirit, and gallant self-sacrifice reflect the highest credit upon himself, the infantry, and the U.S. Army.

[KWE Note: Pfc. Pilila'au was a Native Hawaiian.]

  • Red Cloud, Cpl. Mitchell Jr.


    Mitchell Red Cloud Jr.
    (Click picture for a larger view)


    Rank and organization: Corporal, U S. Army, Company E, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division. Place and date: Near Chonghyon, Korea, 5 November 1950. Entered service at: Merrilan Wisconsin. Born: 2 July 1924, Hatfield, Wisconsin.  He was a member of the Ho-Chunk tribe.

    G.O. No.: 26, 25 April 1951. Citation: Cpl. Red Cloud, Company E, distinguished himself by conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity above and beyond the call of duty in action against the enemy. From his position on the point of a ridge immediately in front of the company command post he was the first to detect the approach of the Chinese Communist forces and give the alarm as the enemy charged from a brush-covered area less than 100 feet from him. Springing up he delivered devastating pointblank automatic rifle fire into the advancing enemy. His accurate and intense fire checked this assault and gained time for the company to consolidate its defense. With utter fearlessness he maintained his firing position until severely wounded by enemy fire. Refusing assistance he pulled himself to his feet and wrapping his arm around a tree continued his deadly fire again, until he was fatally wounded. This heroic act stopped the enemy from overrunning his company's position and gained time for reorganization and evacuation of the wounded. Cpl. Red Cloud's dauntless courage and gallant self-sacrifice reflects the highest credit upon himself and upholds the esteemed traditions of the U.S. Army.

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Silver Star

  • Bald Eagle Bear, Frederick Ambrose

Corporal Bald Eagle Bear received the Silver Star posthumously.  See the Killed in Action section of this page.  His Silver Star citation has not yet been found by the Korean War Educator.

  • Benge, Martin

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Private First Class Martin Benge (ASN: RA-20828251), United States Army, for gallantry in action as a member of the Heavy Mortar Company, 34th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, on 6 July 1950 near Chonan, Korea. Private First Class Benge's unit was withdrawing from its position when it was noticed that a vehicle and four wounded soldiers had been left behind. Without regard for his personal safety, Private First Class Benge voluntarily re-entered the area which was under heavy enemy fire and brought the vehicle and four wounded soldiers to safety. Private First Class Benge's display of courage, fortitude and valor reflects the highest possible credit on himself and the military service. General Orders: Headquarters, 24th Infantry Division, General Orders No. 74 (August 7, 1950)

  • Chegay, George

For conspicuous gallantry and Intrepidity while serving as an Automatic Rifleman of Company H, Third Battalion, First Marines, First marine Division (Reinforced), In action against enemy aggressor forces In Korea on 26 July 1953. With his company defending a vital portion of the oak line of resistance while subjected to constant enemy small-arms, mortar and artillery fire, Private First Class Chegay continuous1y exposed himself to the murderous barrage in order to fire on hostile troops forward of his position, accounting for one enemy dead and the probable wounding of two others. Despite the increasing intensity of the enemy mortar and artillery fire, he remained in his position during the approaching hours of darkness to observe enemy activity to his front and, when the leading wave of enemy infantry charged the position, immediately proceeded to deliver intense and accurate fire, thereby warning the remainder of his company of the proximity of the hostile troops. Although his weapon was damaged by a nearby exploding enemy shell, he picked up an abandoned rifle and fearlessly moved into the trench line to engage several of the enemy who had entered the friendly position. Mortally wounded when the immediate area was shattered by an enemy mortar barrage, Private First Class Chegay, by his intrepid fighting spirit, courageous initiative and resolute determination in the face of heavy odds, served to nspire all who observed him and upheld the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.

  • Killingsworth, Leo E.

The Silver Star is awarded posthumously to Private Lee E. Killingsworth, RA18281743, Infantry, Army of the United States. On the morning of 16 July 1950, the Second Platoon, Heavy Mortar Company, 19th Infantry Regiment, was in support of Company C which was subjected to a number of attacks by enemy infantry. After a number of such attacks had been repulsed, the enemy succeeded in flanking the position of Company C and attacked between the rear of that organization and the heavy mortar positions. Since the enemy was inside heavy mortar range, the platoon defended its perimeter position with small arms fire. When the position became untenable, the Platoon Leader gave the order to withdraw. Private Killingsworth, and three other soldiers, although unwounded and perfectly able to withdraw volunteered to remain in the platoon position and hold off the enemy while the rest of the platoon withdrew. During the time the platoon was withdrawing, Private Killingsworth and his companions repulsed two assaults, killing at least nineteen of the enemy. Defying odds of about thirty to one these soldiers enabled the main body of the platoon to withdraw and to take their wounded with them. On the final enemy assault their position was overrun and all were killed. Home Town: Kuse, Oklahoma.

La Pointe, Walter Batisse

Citation:  As Company F attacked Hill 347, Private La Pointe moved ahead of the company line, seeking out and firing on enemy emplacements. Ignoring the intense fire the foe was directing on the area, Private La Pointe displayed superb courage and determination by advancing whenever possible and setting up his weapon in unprotected but commanding positions. He bravely continued in this manner, providing much needed automatic weapons fire for his comrades, until mortally wounded. Private La Pointe's gallantry reflects the highest credit on himself and the military service.

  • Littlejohn, Charles Jackson
     
  • Poolaw, Pascal Cleatus Sr. (2nd award)

Headquarters, 25th Infantry Division
General Orders No. 413 (November 25, 1950)

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Sergeant First Class Pascal Cleatus Poolaw (ASN: 18131087), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. On 19 September 1950 when the company attack on an enemy position was halted by stiff enemy resistance, Sergeant First Class Poolaw volunteered to lead his squad in an assault. Courageously leading his men in a charge up the slope to penetrate the enemy perimeter and engage the numerically superior enemy in fierce hand-to-hand combat, Sergeant First Class Poolaw inspired his men to hold their position until the remainder of the company was able to seize the objective. Sergeant First Class Poolaw's outstanding leadership reflects great credit upon himself and is in keeping with the highest traditions of the American Soldier.

  • Poolaw, Pascal Cleatus Sr. (3rd award)

Headquarters, 25th Infantry Division
General Orders No. 306 (May 29, 1951)

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star to Master Sergeant Pascal Cleatus Poolaw (ASN: 18131087), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Company C, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. On 4 April 1951 near Chongong-ni, Korea, while attacking strong hostile positions, one squad of Master Sergeant Poolaw's platoon was immobilized by a devastating automatic weapons and mortar barrage. Exposing himself to the deadly fire, he slowly advanced across open terrain, firing his rifle as he progressed. By deliberately diverting the attention of the foe to himself, he enabled his men to maneuver to more advantageous positions. Master Sergeant Poolaw's valorous actions were instrumental in the fulfillment of the unit mission and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the American Soldier.

  • Risingsun, Teddy

The Silver Star is awarded to Sergeant Teddy Risingsun, RA39940641, Infantry, United States Army, a member of Company F, 23d Infantry Regiment, 2d Infantry Division, who displayed gallantry in action against an armed enemy on 24 May 1951 in the vicinity of Changpong-ni, Korea. Sergeant Risingsun and his squad, as lead elements in an assault on an enemy roadblock, came under intense enemy machine gun and small arms fire. Though wounded in the head by this fire, he refused to be evacuated and continued to urge his men forward. This heroic action inspired his men to renewed efforts, and the enemy force was overrun. The gallant conduct of Sergeant Risingsun reflects great credit upon himself and the military service. Entered the military service from Busby, Big Horn County, Montana. Northern Cheyenne tribe (full blood), Tongue River Reservation.

  • Tall Bear, Alvin

The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Sergeant Alvin Tall Bear (MCSN: 666298), United States Marine Corps, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity while serving as a Platoon Sergeant of Company F, Second Battalion, Seventh Marines, First Marine Division (Reinforced), in action against enemy aggressor forces in Korea from 28 January to 15 March 1951. With his platoon leader seriously wounded and evacuated to the rear during his company's assault against the regimental objective, a series of cleverly camouflaged enemy positions deeply entrenched on a high hill, Sergeant Tall Bear immediately assumed command and effected a skillful reorganization under blistering small arms and automatic weapons fire. Painfully wounded in the arm as he spearheaded the drive up the steep and treacherous slope, he refused to leave his men and continued to lead them forward until severe pain and loss of blood forced him to submit to evacuation. By his daring initiative, forceful and determined leadership and dauntless fighting spirit in the face of heavy odds, Sergeant Tall Bear served as an inspiration to all who observed him and contributed materially to the successful seizure of the objective. His heroic efforts throughout were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
 

  • Tessier, Robert W.

He received a Silver Star during the Korean War.  See Native Americans of Note section for his larger biography.

  • Whitebird, Albert Sr.

See Native Americans of Note section.

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Distinguished Flying Cross

  • Bryant, Lt. William Arnold Jr.

Lieutenant Bryant received the DFC as well as the Air Medal with four gold stars.  See also the KIA/MIA section of this page.

  • Tahsequah, Meech

See Killed in Action/Missing in Action section.
 

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Bronze Star

  • Fairbanks, Richard Marvin

[See Killed in Action section.]

  • George, Charles

See the Medal of Honor section.

  • Obina, Gilbert Jovit

Native Hawaiian

  • Rice, John Raymond

[See Killed in action section.]

  • Rickard, N.L.

[See Killed in Action section.]

  • Shay, Charles Norman

Born June 27, 1924, Shay is a Penobscot tribal elder, writer, and decorated veteran of World War II and Korea.  He was drafted into the military in 1943 and during World War II he served with the Medical Detachment of the 1st Division's 16th Infantry Regiment and was attached to Fox Company as a combat platoon medic.  After his discharge when his service in World War II was over, Shay reenlisted in the military and served with the 7th Infantry Regiment of the 3rd Infantry Division as a combat medic.  Master Sergeant Shay was awarded the Bronze Star with two oak leaf clusters.  In 2012 he published his book, Project Omaha Beach: The Life and Military Service of a Penobscot Native American Elder.

  • Snell, Delbert Ray

See Killed in action section.

  • Tanyan, Edwin

He received three Bronze Stars with valor during the Korean War.  See also Veterans of Note section.

  • Tessier, Robert W.

He received two Bronze Stars in the Korean War.  See the Native American Indians of Note section for his larger biography.

  • Torres, Jose Camelio

Private First Class Torres was born August 30, 1929. He was adopted by Jose Antonio Montoya. He was a Pueblo Native American from the Tegua Tribe, San Juan Reservation. He was the husband of Mrs. Nickolacita L. Torres of Sandia Pueblo. He died April 10, 1952 while serving in F Company, 2nd Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division. He is buried in San Juan Pueblo Catholic Cemetery, San Juan Pueblo, New Mexico. He was the recipient of a Bronze Star for Valor.

  • Warlie, Will Yaney

See Killed in Action section.

  • Wilber, Edwin J.

Headquarters 1st Cavalry Division
General Orders 49 - 7 February 1952

Private First Class Edwin J. Wilber, RA16332430, Infantry, United States Army, Company E, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, is cited for heroism in action against an armed enemy on 10 October 1951, near Mago-ri, Korea.  During the attack on an enemy-held hill, the friendly troops were subjected to intense small arms, automatic weapons, machine gun, grenade, mortar and artillery fire. Private Wilber, assistant squad leader, was advancing up the rugged slopes of the objective.  When the rest of his squad was immobilized by the heavy concentration of fire, Private Wilber, exhibiting exceptional courage, moved out to silence the hostile emplacement that was obstructing the advance.  Crawling to within grenade range of the enemy bunker, he silenced it with two accurately thrown grenades.  Then working his way through a connecting trench, Private Wilber entered a second hostile position and killed its occupants with a Chinese automatic weapon.  Private Wilber's courageous action enabled his squad to advance and successfully complete this mission.  His heroism reflects great credit on himself and the military service.  Entered federal service from Wisconsin.


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Killed in Action/Missing in Action/Died in Korea

A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  XYZ

A

Aitkin, Leroy Joseph

Born October 07, 1933, Private Aitkin was a son of Joseph R. Aitkin (1902-1976) and Hattie Windom Aitkin (1903-1951).  He was killed in action in North Korea on June 09, 1952, while serving in I Company, 3rd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division.  He is buried in Onigum Catholic Cemetery, Bena, Minnesota.  Among his siblings were Joseph R. Aitkin Jr. (1926-1998), Bernice Marie Aitkin Barstow (1929-1999), Elizabeth Aitkin Fairbanks, Georgianna (Mrs. John) Feigum, and three other brothers and two other sisters.  He is listed on an Ojibwe Native American honor roll at www.ojibwe.org.

Amos, Morris

Sergeant Amos was born January 3, 1922, son of Hickman Amos (born 1892) and Wicy Joseph Amos (born 1891).  This Choctaw was a World War II veteran held as a POW in Germany on October 6, 1944.  His siblings were Nora Amos McKinney (1926-1999) and two other sisters.  His foster mother was Eliza Winship (1886-1966).  He was killed in action on July 7, 1950 at Chonan, Korea, while serving in K Company, 3rd Battalion, 34th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division.  He is buried in Philadelphia Cemetery, McCurtain, Oklahoma.

Aragon, Arthur James

Corporal Aragon was born February 13, 1929 in Casa Bianca, New Mexico, the son of Lorenzo and Jessie Aragon.  He was serving in B Company, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines, when he was killed in action at Yongsan in the Naktong Bulge.  He was a member of Laguna Pueblo Tribe, Cibola County, New Mexico.  He is buried in Paguate Cemetery, Paguate, New Mexico.

Arch, Charles Edward

Private First Class Arch was born February 14, 1933 in Cherokee, North Carolina, a son of Horace Arch (1909-1967) and Sarah Lee Reed Arch (1912-1970).  His siblings included Frederick Horace Arch Sr. (1941-2004), Roger Arch, Clayton Wilford Arch (1949-1968), Treannie Arch, William Howard "Bud" Arch (died 2011), Catherine Arch Larch. Mrs. Ben (Annabelle Arch) Marmon (died 2012), Evangeline "Vangie" Laney (1939-2016), and Mrs. Walter (Theresa "Nan" Arch) Rattler (1946-2018).  Private Arch, a member of the Eastern Cherokee Tribe, Eastern Cherokee Reservation, Cherokee, North Carolina, died of wounds received in the Western Outposts of Korea on March 27, 1953.  He was serving in I Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment at the time of his death.  He is buried in the Arch Family Cemetery, Cherokee, North Carolina.

 

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B

Bald Eagle Bear, Frederick Ambrose

Corporal Bald Eagle Bear was born June 09, 1929, in Rosebud, South Dakota, the son of Peter Bald Eagle Bear and Mary Crier.  He was a member of Company L, 180th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division when he was killed in action near Chohanggol, North Korea, on March 11, 1953.  He was posthumously awarded the Silver Star for heroism.  [The KWE cannot confirm this because we haven't found his citation.]  His siblings were Larene Bald Eagle Bear and Evangeline Mary Long Soldier (1931-2020).  He was buried in the Catholic Mission Cemetery, Wanblee, South Dakota.  He was from the Pine Ridge Reservation, Pine Ridge, South Dakota.

Barney, Freddie

Corporal Barney was born March 15, 1926 in New Mexico, the son of Joe and Ateebah Barney of New Mexico.  He enlisted in the Army on August 05, 1948.  He was seriously wounded while serving with B Company, 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division, on August 11, 1950.  He returned to duty on September 6, 1950 and was killed in action September 18, 1950 in the Pusan Perimeter near P'ohang Dong. He is buried in Navajo Memorial Cemetery, Fort Defiance, Arizona.

Basina, Marlin Francis

Private First Class Basina was born January 17, 1933, a son of Frances Basina (1909-1979) and Elizabeth Iva Peters Basina (1913-1980).  Her graduated from Neopit, Wisconsin public school in 1949 and then attended Shawano High School.  He enlisted in the Army on March 01, 1950 at Green Bay.  He trained at Fort Knox, Kentucky, Fort Benning, Georgia, and Fort Campbell, Kentucky.  He had made 12 parachute jumps prior to leaving for Korea in September 1950 after completing airborne training at Fort Benning on June 04, 1950.  He was serving in A Company, 1st Battalion, 187th ARCT when he was killed in action on February 4, 1951.  He was from the Menominee Indian Reservation, Neopit.  His siblings were Francis Basina Jr. "Jobbie" (1945-1965), Verlin Basina, and Victoria Basina.  He is buried in Saint Anthony Cemetery, Neopit.

Bear, Billy Bull

Private Bear was born December 15, 1928, son of Roley Bear and Kitty Louraney Martin Bear, Edna, Oklahoma.  His siblings were Roy Bear (1941-2014), Clifford Bear, Roosevelt, Roley Bear Jr., Kitty Elizabeth Bear Johnson, Opal Bear Meashintubby, and Mable Bear Boyet (1930-2015).  A Muscogee Creek, Billy trained at Fort Hood, Texas.  He was a member of C Battery, 96th Field Artillery Battalion, X Corps when he was killed in action on May 30, 1953.  He is buried in Montezuma Cemetery, Okfuskee County, Oklahoma.

Bear, Elmer Robert

Corporal Bear was born on June 13, 1927 in North Dakota, the son of Robert Bear (1902-1961) and Dora Hopkins Bear (1905-1968) of Elbowoods, North Dakota.  He enlisted on July 03, 1945.  A World War II veteran, he entered the Reserves and was recalled to duty for the Korean War.  He was missing in action on November 26, 1950 at the Chongchon River, Kujang, Korea.  He was presumed dead on December 31, 1953.  He was from the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation, McLean, North Dakota.

Bearstail, Clyde

Pfc. Bearstail was born January 11, 1930, a son of John and Emma Smith Bearstail.  He and his wife Miriam were parents of two daughters, Gwenneth Bearstail Hostler (1 1/2 years old when her father died) and Kathleen (two months old).  Clyde died June 08, 1951 while serving in C Company, 1st Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division.  He is buried in Memorial Congregational Cemetery, Parshall, North Dakota. Pfc. Bearstail was from Fort Berthold Indian Reservoir.  There are indications that he was a member of the Grosventres tribe.  His siblings were: Salina Howard, Christine Standing Soldier, Theodore Leonard, Mrs. Leo (Joyce Germaine) Standish (1932-2015), Vincent (1921-1972), Pat Bearsdale, Susan Malnourie (1927-2007), Lois (1937-1937), Saunders, Ethel Sanderson, Tommy, Colin (1940-2000).

Belt, Milford Carl

Private First Class Belt was born January 06, 1933 in South Dakota.  He was the son of Esther K. Marshall, Crawford, Nebraska.  He was serving in E Company, 2nd Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division when he was killed in action at Little Gibralter, Hill 355 in Korea.  He was an Ogala Sioux, Pine Ridge Reservation.  He is buried in Saint Johns Episcopal Cemetery, Ogala, South Dakota. 

Benge, Martin

Private Benge was born June 21, 1922 in Oklahoma.  He enlisted in the army on October 12, 1946 after three years of high school.  After four years of duty he was killed in action at the Naktong Bulge in Korea on August 06, 1950 while serving in the Heavy Mortar Company, 34th Infantry Regiment of the 24th Infantry Division.  He was survived by his mother, Mrs. Buck (Emma Middlestricker) Seabolt of Stilwell, Oklahoma (1906-1986), brothers Dick and Mitchell, grandmother Julia Baldridge Cricket (1875-1957) and three-year old daughter Karen Alicia Benge (later Hernandez) (1947-2016).  Martin is buried in Salem Indian Cemetery, Bell, Oklahoma.  Martin was the recipient of a Silver Star. See his citation in the awards section of this page.

Bibeau, Wayne Charles (a/k/a Duane Charles)

Born December 30, 1929, he was a son of Joseph Ahkukkung Bibeau (1890-1955) and Dorothy Lyons Bibeau (1899-1935).  A member of the Ojibwe Tribe, White Oak Point Reservation Conslidated, Chippewa, he was killed in action in the Inje area of Korea on May 28, 1951.  He is buried in Fort Snelling National Cemetery.  Among his siblings were Alice, Edit, Raymond, Geraldine Bibeau, and half brothers Timothy Ray and George Bibeau.

Black Hawk, Arthur Irwin

Corporal Black Hawk was born March 14, 1928, a son of Mr. and Mrs. John Black Hawk.  He was from Black River Falls, Wisconsin and had three brothers and two sisters.  He was serving in L Company, 3rd Battalion, 35th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division when he went missing in action (presumed dead) in the Chongchon River, Ipsok area, Kuryong River on November 26, 1950.  He was a full-blooded Winnebago (Ho-Chunk) native American. 

Blacksmith, Tilmer Henry

Private First Class Blacksmith was born on March 03, 1933.  He was the son of Thomas and Ida Black Elk Blacksmith and the stepson of Andrew Brave Heart.  Tilmer was serving in E Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment when he was killed in action in the Western Outposts area of Korea on July 08, 1953.  He is buried in Dupree Cemetery, Dupree, South Dakota.

Bluedog, Adolph David

Private Bluedog was a member of the 35th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. He was seriously wounded by the enemy in North Korea on August 4, 1952 and died of those wounds later that day. Private Bluedog was awarded the Purple Heart, the Combat Infantryman's Badge, the Korean Service Medal, the United Nations Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Korean Presidential Unit Citation and the Republic of Korea War Service Medal.

Adolph David Bluedog, a Native American (Sioux) from LakeTraverse Reservation, Sisseton Jurisdiction, was born in Waubay South Dakota, on April 17, 1932 to his parents, Flora (Arrow) and David Bluedog. He had two brothers (Earnest and Sidney) and two sisters (Elsie Z. Washington and Harriet Melissa Hurkes). Adolph's mother died when he was 16.

Adolph entered the service on January 15, 1951, at Aberdeen, South Dakota. He joined with his cousin, Earl Evans. They were shipped to Fort Riley, Kansas, for their basic training. The two were separated when Pfc. Evans was sent overseas a year earlier but was returned to the United States in September of 1951 after being wounded in action. Pvt. Blue Dog, who as a member of the 35th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division, was sent to Korea on May 9, 1952.

On August 4, 1952, shortly after arriving in combat, Private Adolph Bluedog was wounded in action and died of his wounds later that same day. When his body was returned to the United States, a local newspaper wrote, "The body of an American Indian whose ancestors died fighting for their freedoms, and who, himself gave his life for democracy, arrived in Waubay Monday night [October 6th, 1951]." His body was accompanied by his cousin, Pfc. Earl Evans. He was buried with military honors at Indian Church Cemetery at Enemy Swim Lake near Waubay on October 9. [Source: Cacti Association website]

Booker, Alexander

Private First Class Booker was born on March 6, 1931 in Massachusetts, a son of Lindsey Matthew Booker (1894-1947) and Frances A. Spencer Booker (1899-1950).  Known as "Zecky" by his family, he had at least one brother, Ralph Booker, and sisters.  His grandfather Alexander Booker was listed in the 1910 census as African-American, but the government lists PFC. Booker as an American Indian.  While serving in I Company, 3rd Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division when he was killed in Korea on December 03, 1950.  He is buried in the cemetery at Mashpee, Massachusetts.

Bowstring, Benestee Benny

Benny Bowstring, born August 03, 1931 and was from the Leech Lake Indian Reservation's Inger Village (Ojibwe). He was serving in L Company, 3rd Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division when he was taken prisoner of war in the Chongchon River Kujang area east on November 27, 1950.  He died of malnutrition while being held at Camp 5 on May 31, 1951.  His remains were not recovered.

Boyiddle, Silas Wayne

Pfc. Boyiddle was born June 27, 1928 in Oklahoma, a son of Jimmie F. Boyiddle (1914-1980) and Marnie White Kadayso Boyiddle (1911-1997). He was serving with the 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division when he went missing in action after an attack in Choch'iwon, Korea, on July 11, 1950.  He died October 31, 1951 near Manp'o, North Korea.  His remains were recovered and returned to the United States.  He was buried in Caddo County, Oklahoma.  He is recognized as a Kiowa and Apache.  His siblings included Betsy Boyiddle, Verna Boyiddle, Raphale R. Boyiddle (1927-1976), Stanley Lee Boyiddle (1940-1981), William "Dink" Boyiddle Sr. (1945-2018), Hicks Boyiddle (1946-2013), Herbert Boyiddle (1949-2000), Donny Mitchell Boyiddle, Robert Boyiddle, and Eddie Boyiddle, twin of Hicks.

Brown, Kenneth Orville "Kayo"

Corporal Brown was born May 03, 1928 in Washington, a son of John Charles Brown (1859-1957) and Johanna Margaret Teyaleash Brown (1875-1957) of Marietta, Washington.  He was a member of the Lummi Nation, Teyaleash family.  His sister was Mrs. Stanley Kinley.  He was serving in M Company, 3rd Battalion, 223 Infantry Regiment, 40th Infantry Division when he was killed in action in Kumhwa, Kumsong, Chwapae Sector of Korea on April 13, 1952.  He is buried in Lummi Reservation Cemetery, Marietta, Washington.

Bryant, William Arnold Jr.

Lieutenant Bryant was born September 25, 1925, a son of William Arnold Bryant Sr. (1900-1987) and Cannie Lee Cranford Bryant (1908-1994).  He was a Choctaw.  On November 17, 1951, his aircraft (AD-4 #442481) stalled on takeoff from the aircraft carrier USS Essex (CV-9) and crashed into the sea.  A helicopter rescue crew picked him out of the water but as he was being hoisted up he slipped from the sling, fell back into the water, and sank.  His remains were not recovered.  He was survived by a son, William A. Bryant III.  His siblings were John Thomas Bryant (1927-1928), Mrs. William L. (Arlena Bryant) Rohrbaugh (1933-2012), Homer Ray Bryant (1937-1989) and Jack Bryant.

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C

Chee, Joseph

Sergeant Chee was born August 13, 1929 in Chinle, Apache County, Arizona, the son of Horten Begas Chee (born 1889) and Eulala Chee (born 1899).  A Navajo from the Navajo Indian Reservation in Chinle, Joseph was a member of Company B, 1st Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division when he went missing on February 4, 1952 in North Korea (Double Horseshoe Hill or Outpost Kelly).  He was presumed dead.  "On February 4, 1952, Chee was part of a platoon-sized patrol from Company B that held an outpost known as "Outpost Kelly" from the west bank of Imjin River when they were attacked by a large unit of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army. The outpost was quickly overrun and the patrol was forced to retreat. Chee was wounded during the process and was left behind. When other elements of Company B retook control of "Outpost Kelly," Chee could not be located. At the time, there was no evidence to suggest he was taken as a prisoner of war by the PVA. After the conflict's ceasefire, Chee was not among the prisoners of war or identified remains returned to US custody. He was declared dead on December 31, 1953."  Joseph and his wife Julia Annie Benally Chee (1929-2013) had a two-year-old daughter, Virginia Chee-Begaye, at the time of his death.

Chegay, George

Private First Class Chegay was born February 22, 1933.   From Show Low, Arizona, he was serving in H Company, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Division when he was killed in action defending Hill 111, Boulder City Outpost.  He is buried in White River Cemetery, White River, Arizona.

Chotkey, Edward G.

Private Chotkey was born May 10, 1923, son of Elmer Chotkey and Ida Johnson Sarkechee Chotkey.  He attended Chilocco Indian School in Chilocco, Oklahoma.  He was a World War II and Korean War veteran. While serving in H Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, he was killed in action on July 3, 1950 in the Taegu area.  He is buried in Little Cemetery, Little, Oklahoma.

Cohoe, Max H.

Pfc. Cohoe was born December 22, 1929, son of Mrs. Nettie Rose Cohoe of Gallup, New Mexico.  He enlisted in October 1947 and was stationed at Camp Crawford, Japan.  From there he was sent to Korea, where he served in A Company, 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division.  He died September 2, 1950 in the Changnyong area of Korea.  He is buried in Rehoboth Mission Cemetery, Rehoboth, Minnesota.

Cole, William Harley

Pfc. Cole was born October 11, 1930 in Luna, New Mexico, a son of William Benny Cole (1894-1971) and Rosa Belle White Cole (later St. John) (1904-1982).  His siblings were Rosa Onealya Cole Winegeart (1923-2012), Estelle Catherine Cole Hager (1925-2002), Margaret Mozelle, and Benny Bruce Cole.  His wife was Mrs. Ellen K. Cole of Deming, New Mexico.  Pfc. Cole, a Choctaw, was missing in action during fighting in the Chorwon area of Korea on October 12, 1951. 

Corbine, Fredrick Allen "Fritz"

Private First Class Corbine was born November 11, 1935 in Hayward, Wisconsin, a son of David Corbine Sr. (1897-1965) and Nellie Nickence Corbine (1904-1989).  His siblings were Margaret Mary "Sky Woman" Corbine Abeita (1925-2011), Buena Beatrice "Kitty" Corbine Province (1930-2001), Lillian Corbine Wootem (born 1937), Bonnie Corbine Cloud, and David Phillip "Corky" Corbine Jr. (1928-2005).  Fritz Corbine, a Chippewa from the Lac Courte Oreilles Reservation, and Ojibwe, enlisted in the Army on November 19, 1952.  He was serving in L Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division when he was killed in action in Korea on June 24, 1953.  He is buried in Greenwood Cemetery, Hayward, Wisconsin.

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D

Dale, Curtis Larry

Private Dale, a Paiute Indian, was born January 11, 1928 in Schurz, Nevada, a son of Robert Dale (1895-1962) and Maggie Benjamin Dale (1896-1971).  While serving in G Company, 2nd Battalion, 15th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division, he was killed in action in Korea on November 25, 1951.  He is buried in Schurz Paiute Indian Cemetery, Nevada.

Dana, Louis Joseph

Private First Class Dana was born June 03, 1930 in Perry, Maine, the son of Grace Mary Moore Lewey (1896-1976).  He was a member of the Passamaquoddy Tribe, Pleasant Point Reservation, Washington County, Maine.  He enlisted in the Marine Corps on August 5, 1948 and died of wounds received at Majon-dong, Sudong, Korea, on November 04, 1950 while serving in the 4.2 Mortar Company, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division.  He is buried in Pleasant Point Cemetery, Perry, Maine. 

Deer With Horns, William Paul

A member of K Company, 3rd Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, Private Deer With Horns was captured after receiving a severe stomach wound.  This Cheyenne River Sioux was the son of Paul and Amy Two Bulls Deer With Horns.  He was born September 1, 1930, and was from South Dakota.  Those who were captured with him said that he took part in a failed escape.  He was recaptured and so severely beaten about his body and face that he was found dead the next day (April 23, 1951).

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E

Eastman, Charles James "Mick"

Private Eastman was born July 12, 1932, a son of Charles James Eastman Sr. (1912-1977) and Anna May Fast Bull Eastman (1911-1945).  His siblings were William Wayne "Bumps" Eastman Sr. (1938-1972) and Charlene Rose Eastman.  Mick was killed in action at Christmas Hill, the Pau-Gol area of Korea while serving in G Company, 2nd Battalion, 180th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division.  He was from the Rosebud Reservation, home of the Sicangu,  Ge us buried in Saint Charles Catholic Cemetery, Saint Francis, South Dakota.

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F

Fairbanks, Richard Marvin

Born March 11, 1931 in Washington State, Pfc. Fairbanks was the son of Mrs. Leona F. Coiser of White Earth, Minnesota.  Although his home was White Earth Reservation of the Consolidated Chippewa, he was a resident of Father Flanagan's Boys Town in Nebraska from June 26, 194445 to August 16, 1945.  H was killed in action by an enemy mortar round on October 04, 1951 in the Chorwon area, Hill 200.  He was a squad leader of the 2nd squad, 2nd platoon, F Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division when he was killed.  He was the recipient of a Bronze Star.  There is a marker for him in Calvary Cemetery, White Earth Township, Minnesota.

Fallis, Orson Dale

Corporal Fallis was born June 13, 1931 in Wood, South Dakota, a son of Antoine Fallis (1893-1971) and Susan Bear Doctor Fallis (1895-1946).  A Sioux from the Rosebud Indian Reservation, his siblings were Stephen F. Fallis (1921-1992), Leona Mae Falls (1925-66), Clair Richard (1929-1959), and Joseph Cleveland Fallis (1918-1958)..  He was serving as a member of L Conpany, 3rd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment when he was taken Prisoner of War during Task Force Crombez in the Chipyong-ni area.  He died in captivity and remains missing in action.

Flett, Leonard James

Corporal Flett was born April 22, 1932, son of Alex and Lena Edwards Flett.  He became missing in action in Korea while serving in Company L, 3rd Battalion, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division.  He was presumed dead on December 31, 1953.  Leonard was from the Spokane Tribe, Spokane Tribe, Spokane Reservation of the Colville Jurisdiction, Wellpinit, Washington.

Flying Hawk, Douglas Ambrose

Private Flying Hawk was born April 23, 19l36 in Charles Mix County, South Dakota, the son of Theodore Flying Hawk and Lavina Flying Hawk.  He was serving in the Army in Korea when he died of other causes on January 27, 1954.  He is buried in Greenwood Episcopal Church Cemetery, Greenwood, South Dakota.  He had siblings Gloria Flying Hawk, Belva Cynthia Flying Hawk, and one other.

Frazier, Elam Lee

Born August 25, 1922, he was the husband of Sarah Ann Frazier of Antlers, Oklahoma.  He was a son of Lewis Samuel Frazier (1899-1956) and Semiah John Frazier (1900-1994).  A Choctaw, he was serving with the 24th Replacement Company, 24th Infantry Division (combat engineers) when he drowned while swimming in the Manchan River near Miryang, South Korea.  He is buried in City Cemetery, Antlers, Oklahoma.  He enlisted in late 1943 and was a veteran of World War II that participated in the Normandy Landing, and campaigns in Northern France, Rhine and Central Europe.  He was honorably discharged after the war, reenlisted on September 16, 1947, and then reenlisted again in November of 1948.  He was the father of JoAnna (age 7) and Naomi Fay (age 3).  His siblings were Tecumseh John "TJ" Frazier (b. 1935), Betty Mae Frazier Ketcheshawno (1938-2017), Timothy Noah Frazier (1941-2020) and Adeline Frazier Hudson. 

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G

Gatewood, Tommy

Private First Class Gatewood was bon August 12, 1931.  He was serving in the western outposts of Korea in F Company, 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment when he died of wounds on December 21, 1952.  This Navajo Indian is buried in Good Shepherd Mission Cemetery, Fort Defiance, Arizona.

George, Charles

See Medal of Honor section.

George, Larson Jackson

Private First Class George was born January 09, 1926, the son of Eugene and Susie Snipe George of Fort Hall, Idaho.  He was serving in C Company, 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division when he was killed in action on August 14, 1950 in the Naktong Bulge near Yongsan.  He was a native American from the Fort Hall Agency.  His brother, Pfc. Stanley George, was killed in Belgium during World War II on December 23, 1944.  Larson George is buried in Ross Fork Cemetery, Fort Hall, Idaho.

Gia, George

Private First Class Gia was born in 1930, son of Mrs. Mae Thompson of Chinle, Arizona.  He was inducted in the Army on March 15, 1951.  He died October 13, 1951 at Heartbreak Ridge while serving in the 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division.  He was a Native American and is buried in the Navajo Memorial Cemetery, Fort Defiance, Arizona.

Goggleye, Joseph Norman

Pfc. Goggleye was born February 03, 1930, a son of Mike Goggleye (1894-1961) and Sophia Wein Goggleye (1889-1977).  He was from the Bois Forte Indian Reservation, Bois Forte Band of Ojibwe.  He was serving in D Company, 1st Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, when he was killed in action on October 04, 1951 in the Chorwon area.  He is buried in Nett Lake Cemetery, Nett Lake, Minnesota.  His brother was Raymond James Goggleye (1925-1978), and his half brothers were Frank William Dupree and John Dupris.

Goodsell, Carl B.

Private First Class Goodsell was born February 01, 1933.  He was from the Cheyenne and Arapahoe Reservation.  He was a member of L Company, 3rd Battalion, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division when he died of wounds received in battle in the Chorwon area.  He is buried in the Watonga Indian Cemetery, Watonga, Oklahoma.

Grass, David "Dave" Franklin Jr.

Sergeant First Class Grass was born December 25, 1920, the son of David F. Grass Sr. (1894-2962) and Lucy Jane Hair Grass (1890-1958).  His siblings were Korean War veterans Rev. Jack Grass and Rev. William Patterson Grass (1926-1995).  They were Cherokee Indians.  Dave had a great love for baseball.  He was seriously wounded in Korea on March 24, 1951 while serving in Able Company, 19th Regiment, 24th Infantry Division.  He returned to duty April 8, 1951.  He was killed in action April 20, 1951 in Kalmal Myon, North Korea.  He was survived by his wife Margie Mae Condit Grass Ogilvie (1924-2011) and son Kenneth Gerald Grass (1947-2020), who was age five at the time of his father's death.  Dave is buried in Hogan Cemetery, Locust Grove, Oklahoma.   

Green, Joe Calvin Jr.

Private Green, a Choctaw, was born on August 30, 1931, a son of Joe Alexander Green (1896-1966) and Sarah Margaret Carmichel Green (1893-1970).  He enlisted in the Army in California and was killed in action on January 24, 1952 in the Chorwon area.  He was serving in Company C, 1st Battalion, 279th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division.  His sister was Mrs. Hillard Clinton (Josephine Catherine Green) Ozier (1934-1997).  Joe is buried in Acacia Memorial Park, Modesto, California.  He was a Native American, possibly Choctaw.

Grey Buffalo, Henry Orville

Corporal Grey Buffalo was born on June 03, 1930 in Sisseton, South Dakota, a son of John McKinley Grey Buffalo (1899-1944) and Goldie Ella Varns Grey Buffalo (1914-1968).  He was a member of Company C, 839th Engineer Aviation Construction Battalion.  He was operating a tournadozer along the railroad beds near Osan, South Korea, when he was struck by a train and died on January 17, 1953.  His siblings were Duane John Grey Buffalo (1928-2001) and Elwood Levi Grey Buffalo (1933-2019).  Corporal Grey Buffalo is buried in Sisseton Cemetery, Sisseton, South Dakota.

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H

Hammond, James Donald

Private First Class Hammond was killed in action at Boulder City, a western outpost in Korea.  Born July 24, 1953 in Fort Yuma, California, he enlisted in the Marine Corps on May 08, 1952.  He was serving in I Company,  3rd Battalion, 1st Marines when he died.  He is buried in Fort Yuma Post Cemetery, Winterhaven, California.

Yuma Daily Sun And Arizona Sentinel (Yuma, Arizona) July 28, 1953
James Hammond Killed in Action in Korea July 24

Mr. and Mrs. Alfonso Hammond of the Fort Yuma Indian Reservation received word yesterday of the death of their eldest son James, 21 who was killed in action in Korea July 24, just three days before the war ended. The Department of Defense telegram informed the parents of the death of their son, who joined the Marine Corps after graduating from Yuma Union High School, and who left the United States for Korea last May 16. It was presumed he was with the 1st Marine Division which stopped the red Chinese offensive on the Central Front several days ago. The Marines inflicted heavy losses on the attackers but in turn also suffered severe losses.

Young Hammond is survived by his parents, three brothers, Alfonso, Jr., Robert and Leonard; two sisters, Phyllis and Arlene, and two half-brothers, Doyle and Davis Escalanti. The Defense Department notified the parents that their son would be returned to the United States. The father is a printer In the Yuma Daily Sun shop.

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Yuma Daily Sun and Arizona Sentinel (Yuma, Arizona) Oct 2 1953
Body of Pfc. James Hammond Here Thursday

The remains of Private First Class James D. Hammond, killed in action during the last few days of the Korean War, will arrive in Yuma at 6:05 a. m. tomorrow (Thursday), the U.S. Marine Corps announced today. The remains will be escorted by Marine Technical Sergeant, William B. Heligeist from Oakland, California, and will be on view at the Indian cremation grounds all day Friday and Saturday. Friends are welcome to view the remains on these two days. Cremation is to be held at 4 p.m. Sunday.

Pfc. Hammond is the son of Mrs. Martha Hammond whose husband, Alfonso, 54, died on October 3rd in the Indian hospital at Ft. Yuma after a two-week illness. He was born March 15, 1932. He attended Yuma Union High School. Surviving are his mother, three brothers, Robert, Leonard, and Alfonso, Jr.; two sisters, Phyllis and Martha Arlene, and two half sisters, Aljean and Eleanor Hammond.

Hansen, John James

Corporal Hansen was born March 12, 1930.  Listed as a Native American, he was serving in A Company, 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, when he was killed in action in Korea on February 18, 1952.  He is buried in Ukiah Cemetery, Ukiah, California.

Hanson, Leland Lee

Corporal Hanson was born June 14, 1927.  His brothers were Logan Hanson and Dugan Hanson (1923-2001).  From the Lone Pine Paiute Shoshone Reservation, he was a medic with Medical Company, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division.  He was seriously wounded in North Korea while tending to wounded comrades on January 19, 1952.  He died of wounds the next day.  He is buried in Darwin Cemetery, Darwin, California.

Hardin, Kermit McCoy

Sergeant Hardin was born January 11, 1927 in Kansas, Oklahoma, a son of Charles McCoy Hardin (1892-1962) and Maggie Melisa Carrick Hardin (1895-1929).  He married a Minnick and they had a daughter, Carol Hardin (Mosteller), who was 18 months old when her father died. Listed as a Native American, his siblings were Maggie L. Hardin Craig (1916-2010), Warren Griffeth Hardin (1922-1935), Vondale C. Hardin (1923-1975), and Patricia Mae Hardin Spurlock (1925-1992).  He was killed in action on May 18, 1951 in Chaun-Ni, Korea, while serving as a medic in Medical Company, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division.  He is buried in Fort Gibson National Cemetery.

Harjo, Wilson Brown

Private Harjo was born in Oklahoma on August 27, 1927, son of Buddy Harjo and Hattie Harjo (1903-1996).  He enlisted in the army on January 03, 1946 and was a World War II veteran.  He was recalled to active duty from the Enlisted Reserve Corps for the Korean War.  He died July 10, 1950 near Chochiwon, South Korea.  He is buried in Wiley-Watson Family Cemetery, Dustin, Oklahoma.

Harvey, Raymond

"Captain Raymond Harvey, a Chickasaw, was commanding officer of Company C, 17th Infantry, 7th Infantry Division. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for an action on March 9, 1951, near Taerni-dong, South Korea. When Harvey’s company was pinned down by automatic weapons fire from several well-entrenched emplacements, he braved bullets and grenades to advance to the first North Korean machine gun nest and killed its crew with grenades. Rushing to the edge of the next emplacement, he killed its crew with carbine fire. Captain Harvey then moved the 1st Platoon forward, but it was again stopped by automatic weapons. Disregarding the hail of fire, he charged and destroyed a third emplacement. Miraculously, Harvey continued to lead the assault through the intense crossfire. After spotting a well-camouflaged enemy pillbox, he moved close enough to sweep the emplacement with carbine fire and throw grenades through the openings, killing its five occupants. Though wounded and in pain, he ordered his company forward and continued to direct the attack on the remaining hostile positions. Harvey refused evacuation until assured that the mission would be accomplished."

Hood, Haskell Hanford

Private First Class Hood was born September 27, 1932, a son of Charles and Thelma Miller Hood.  He was from the Modoc Klamath Tribe, Klamath Reservation of the Klamath Jurisdiction.  He died May 29, 1951 at Sugar Loaf, Kason-ni, Korea, while serving in K Company, 3rd Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division.  To find information about the circumstances of his death, visit the Korean War Project website.  He is buried in Chief Schonchin Cemetery, Klamath County, Oregon.

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I

Icho, David Workman

Private Icho was born July 02, 1928 in California, a son of Robert Ogden Icho (1892-1975) and Laura Icho (1907-1987).  His siblings included Korean War veteran Lester Icho (1930-1993), Frederick Icho (1945-2015) and Marshallena Icho (1924-1943).  Marshallena was killed in World War II.  David was serving in A Company, 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division when he was killed in action on August 30, 1951 at Bloody Ridge.  This Native American was a former lifeguard at the community pool in his hometown of Exeter, California.  He is buried in Exeter District Cemetery, Exeter, California.

Irwin, John "Shorty" Jr.

Private Irwin was born May 25, 1932 near Fort Berthold Reservation, a son  of John and Gladys Irwin.  A member of the Hidatsa Tribe, he lived in the Lucky Mound Community along the Missouri River.  He died in an R6D-1 airplane crash in Hawaii on March 21, 1955.  His wife was Elaine Irwin and their son was two-year-old Gerald Irwin.  Shorty's siblings included Johanna Irwin White Bear, Alva Irwin, Doreen Mavis Irwin, Sally Irwin White, Ada Irwin Sharp, Christine "Sadie" Irwin Bears Tail (1934-1989), Rosanna Irwin (1948-1951) and James Irwin (1939-2019).

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J

James, Larry Patrick

Private First Class James was born January 22, 1931 in Tahola, Washington, a son of Mitchell James   Mrs. Laura Nichols.  His siblings were brothers Richard S. "Dick" James (1929-1981), Lester James, and  Korean War veteran Russell Paul James.  Larry was a pupil at Auburn High School and lived in Auburn 11 years.   He was a Quineielt Skokomish American Indian from the Taholan Indian Agency.  He was killed in action in Korea on September 22, 1950 while serving in G Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, and is buried in Mountain View Cemetery, Auburn, Washington.

Jewett, Arthur F. "Bluie"

Born August 26, 1928, west of White Horse, South Dakota, Jewett went missing during the Chosin Reservoir Campaign in 1950.  He had joined the Army in 1948 and was a member of Company P, 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division.  Bluie was a member of the Cheyenne River Indian tribe.  He was one of 10 children.  Among his siblings were a twin brother Albert, Keith, Lyonne, Louis, Julie and Juanita.  His remains were returned to the United States in 2012.

Johnson, Arthur R.

Corporal Johnson was born September 12, 19927 in Adams, Oregon, the son of Chief Charley Bert Johnson (Wap Tash Ta Kin) (1885-1954) and Annie H. Johnson (1885-1973).  Arthur enlisted in the Army on October 10, 1950.  He was killed in action in Korea on August 27, 1951 at Bloody Ridge while serving in B Company, 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division.  He is buried in Homly Cemetery, Umatilla County, Oregon.

Johnson, Carl Warren

Private Johnson was born February 27, 1l929 in Owens, California, a son of Robert and Deborah D. Johnson.  His siblings were Wilber, Robert, Don, Gene and Wayne Johnson.  Carl, who was a star high school athlete, joined the Army and was killed July 27, 1950 at Anui, Korea in the Pusan Perimeter while serving in D Company, 1st Battalion, 29th Infantry Regiment.  He is buried in Schurz Paiute Indian Cemetery, Schurz, Nevada.

Jones, William Edward

Private First Class Jones was born February 16, 1930, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Jones of Tohatchi, New Mexico.  He was serving in I Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines when he died of wounds at Hagaru-ri, Chosin Reservoir.  He enlisted on September 22, 1949.  Jones is buried in the Navajo Memorial Cemetery, Fort Defiance, Arizona.

Jumbo, Jimmie

Sergeant Jumbo was born on March 08, 1924 in New Mexico, a son of Jumba and Bilnihzybah Jumbo.  A member of the Salt People Clan for the Bitter Water People Clan, his siblings included George, Charlie, and Hashailwotd.  He was serving in B Battery, Provisional Battalion, 59th Field Artillery Battalion (105mm) when he went missing at the Chosin Reservoir.  He was presumed dead on December 31, 1953. 

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Kaniatobe, Charles Gibson

Born January 31, 1929 in Haworth, Oklahoma, this Choctaw was the son of Walter Kaniatobe (1900-1970) and Wilcey Shaw Kaniatobe (1908-1991) of Idabel, Oklahoma.  He was serving with A Company, 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division when he went missing while fighting the enemy near Chochiwon, South Korea, on July 10, 1950.  His remains were later recovered and he was laid to rest in Denison Cemetery, Idabel, on November 17, 2018.  His siblings were Alvin (died 1946), James Earl (1934-2021), Cecil Clayton (1937-2014), Melvin M. (1944-2016), Josephine Kaniatobe Porter, Clara Kaniatobe, Doris Kaniatobe Chaves, Sue Kaniatobe, and Ann K. Kaniatobe Factor.  He was a Choctaw.

Karty, Dennis King

Corporal Karty was serving with B Company, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division, when he was captured by the enemy at Panmegi-Ri (Bunker Hill, Hill 1051 area) on May 18, 1951 and died as a prisoner of war at Camp 4 on March 30, 1952.  A Kiowa/Comanche, he was born on October 08, 1931, a son of George Karty (1901-1978) and Kate Botone Karty (1905-2002).  His siblings were Virgil, Billy, Kenneth, Randolph (Randy), Rita, George Jr., Katy, Louis, and Glenda. There is a marker for him in Highland Cemetery, Lawton, Oklahoma.  He was a Comanche.

Kessick [Kesick], Lawrence H.

Private Kessick was born September 19, 1931 in Delta, Michigan, a son of Joseph Kesick Jr. (1897-1965) and Rose Veronica Boursaw Kessick (1907-1989).  He had ten siblings, including Joyce Jensen and Herbert Leroy Kesick (1938-2015).  Lawrence was killed in action along the Kum River at Samgyo-Ri, Korea, on July 14, 1950, while serving in the 63rd Field Artillery Battalion of the 24th Infantry Division.  He is buried in Fernwood Cemetery, Gladstone, Michigan.  He is listed as Native American.

Killingsworth, Leo E.

Killed in action while serving with a mortar company of the 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, this Choctaw was born March 22, 1931, a son of Louis Monroe Killingsworth (1905-1980) and Linnie Levinia Williams Killingsworth (1909-1989).  He enlisted in the army on August 31, 1949, and was killed in action July 16, 1950. His Silver Star citation is listed under the awards section of this page.  His siblings were Martin Louis Killingsworth (1926-2014), D.C. Killingsworth (also a Korean War veteran) (1928-1994), Orval Eugene Killingsworth (1932-1992), Velton Killingsworth Sr., and Faye Killingsworth.

Klinekole, Austin Lewis

This Native American was the first Apache killed during the Korean War.  Corporal Klinekole died September 18, 1951.

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La Pointe, Walter Batisse

Private First Class La Pointe was born on June 24, 1931.  He was the youngest of eight children born to Albert and Elizabeth Ringing Shield L aPointe.  Like so many Native Americans in South Dakota and across our country, Walter felt an obligation to serve his country. Walter enlisted at the age of 19 and was sent overseas in 1951. Just four months after arriving in Korea, Walter was killed in an intense firefight near Homang-ni. He was from the Sioux Tribe, Rosebud Reservation, Pine Ridge.

LaVallie, Alfred C. Jr.

Corporal LaVallie was born December 10, 1932, a son of Alfred C. LaVallie (1905-1990) and Mary P. Amyotte LaVallie (1907-1989).  His sibling was Korean War veteran Gregory H. LaVallie (1935-2021).  Alfred was killed in action on October 10, 1951 in the Chorwon area while serving in the 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1sst Cavalry Division.  He is buried in Saint Anthony's Church cemetery, Belcourt, North Dakota.

Lewis, Phillip Gerald

Private First Class Lewis was born October 28, 1929, the son of Wilbur and Alice Lewis.  He was serving in G Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division when he was killed in action on November 13, 1951 in the Chorwon area.  He was a Laguna Pueblo, Mesita Indian.  He is buried in Santa Fe National Cemetery, Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Little Bear, Melvin James

Melvin was born February 25, 1930 in South Dakota, the son of John and Agnes Little Bear.  Private First Class Little Bear was a member of Battery A, 15th Field Artillery Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division. He was taken Prisoner of War while fighting the enemy in the Chorwon area (Hill 347) near Hoengsong, South Korea on February 13, 1951 and died while a prisoner on July 21, 1951. His remains were not recovered. He was a Native American, Standing Rock Sioux, Standing Rock Reservation.

Littlehawk, John Jr.

Pfc. Littlehawk was born November 30, 1933, son of John Littlehawk Sr. (1892-1945) and Lizzie "Beaver Skin" Otterby Littlehawk (1891-1959).  He joined the Army on September 12, 1949, and was serving in I Company, 3rd Battalion, 187th Airborne Regimental Combat Team when he was killed in action on October 21, 1950 in Air Drop Sunchon, Opa-ri area in Korea.  He is buried in Cheyenne Cemetery, Watonga, Oklahoma.  Pfc. Littlehawk was a Cheyenne Indian.  His son, Donald R. Littlehawk, served in Vietnam in 1970-71 in the 173rd Airborne Brigade.

Littlejohn, Charles Jackson

Charles Jackson Littlejohn was born 27 July 1930 in Adair County Oklahoma. He was the son of William Joseph & Piney Agnes (Jones) Littlejohn. He married Loretta June Owens in 1949 in Satana, Kansas, and was the father of one daughter, Linda June Littlejohn. In addition to wife, daughter and father, he leaves two sisters & two brothers, Mary Fitzsimmons, Betty Jo Giles, William Harvey Littlejohn & Dock Gaines Littlejohn. Corporal Littlejohn was a Browning Automatic Rifleman with the 1st Platoon, Company G, 2nd Battalion, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division. On January 23, 1952 while defending his platoon's position Corporal Littlejohn was wounded when his platoon was struck by a mortar round. Although wounded, he continued to place heavy fire on the enemy positions, covering the evacuation of the wounded. He continued firing until he eventually collapsed on his weapon and was evacuated to the forward aid station. Dying of his wounds before he could receive help. For his leadership and valor, Corporal Littlejohn was awarded the Silver Star, the Purple Heart, the Combat Infantryman's Badge, the Korean Service Medal, The United Nations Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Korean War Service Medal.  Jack was Scotch Irish and Cherokee.  He is buried in Dudley Cemetery, Satana.

Locklear, Junior

Private Junior Locklear was born January 31, 1932, a son of Thomas Allen Locklear (1891-1966) and Nancy Lockley Locklear.  His siblings were Calvin Winton Locklear (1916-2002), and Mrs. Roy (Hester Locklear) Locklear.  His half-sister was Roxie A. Jacobs (1946-2003).  Junior's son was Kenneth Locklear (1948-1948).  Kenneth's mother was Mary Dial Locklear.  Junior, who was listed as a Native American in government records, was serving in D Company, 1st Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division when he was killed in action in the battle of Pork Chop Hill.  He is buried in Dial Cemetery, Lumberton, North Carolina.

Lyotte, Philip James

Sergeant Lyotte was born December 22, 1929 in Mission, South Dakota.  He was a member of Company E, 2nd Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division when he was seriously wounded on September 2, 1950.  He returned to duty on  September 21, 1950 but was captured by Chinese during Operation Thunderbolt and taken to Camp 1 and Changsong.  His remains were recovered and he was buried in his hometown.

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Manitowabi, Alphone "Al"

Sergeant First Class Manitowabi was born December 04, 1925.  He was a Native American Indian (Wikwemikong, Unceded Indian Reservation, Manitoulin Island, Manitoulin District) who emigrated from Ontario, Canada around 1944.  He enlisted in the Army in Chicago, Illinois on January 17, 1951.  He was serving in G Company, 2nd Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division when he was killed in action on May 20, 1953 in Korea.  He is buried in Riverside Cemetery, Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan. 

McAfee, Merton Johnson Jr.

Born July 14, 1923 to Johnson McAfee Sr. (1897-1978) and Sara Lovella Patton McAfee (1895-1977), Sergeant McAfee was a member of Company F, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines when it was reported that he had been bayoneted in the Chosin Reservoir campaign.  He was buried at the base of Fox Hill, but his remains were found and returned to the United States.  They were identified on October 03, 2017.  He was a Pima Indian who was married and had two children.  His siblings were Cameron, Wilmer, Marcella, Lovella Phyllis (1921-1936), and Rodney Winston McAfee (1931-2021).  Sergeant McAfee is referenced in the book, The Last Stand of Fox Company by Bob Drury and Tom Clavin.

McClure, Jim

Sergeant McClure, a Choctaw, was born October 12, 1930, a son of Absalom and Lela Peters McClure (1902-1969).  He enlisted in the army in September 1950, and was killed in action on October 3, 1951 in the Chorwon area.  He was serving in E Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division.  His siblings were James "Mickey" McClure (1926-2011), Silas McClure, Rosa McClure Westmoreland (1928-1990), and Edith McClure.  Jim is buried in Denison Cemetery, Idabel, Oklahoma.

McCurtain, Buster

Sergeant McCurtain was born April 7, 1919, a son of Osborne (1885-1959) and Martha Sockey McCurtain (1891-1951) of Stigler, Oklahoma. He was the brother of Pfc. James B. "Porter" McCurtain who was killed in action on Saipan on June 16, 1944.  Buster enlisted in the Oklahoma National Guard on September 16, 1940 and was serving in the 2nd Armored Reconnaissance Company of the 2nd Infantry Division when he was killed in action in the Naktong Bulge on August 28, 1950.  He was a Choctaw.  He is buried in the Stigler City Cemetery, Stigler.

McCurtain, Isaac M.

Airman Third Class McCurtain was born April 22, 1924, a son of Osborne George McCurtain and Martha Sockey McCurtain.  He was the brother of Buster and Porter McCurtain, both killed in action, each in different wars.  He also had a sister, Elphia May (1912-1933).  Isaac was serving with the 80th Fighter Bomber Squadron, 8th Fighter Bomber Group when he was a passenger on a C-124 Globemaster that crashed three miles from Tachikawa Air Base in Japan on June 18, 1953.  He is buried in Stigler City Cemetery.  He was a Choctaw.

McQueen, Norman

Master Sergeant McQueen was born June 30, 1913 in Oklahoma.  Originally from Hanna and McIntosh, Oklahoma, he was of Indian ancestry.  He enlisted in the Army on June 26, 1946.  He was serving in Headquarters Battery, 63rd Field Artillery Battalion (105mm), 24th Infantry Division, when he was taken prisoner on July 14, 1950 at Samgyo-Ri near the Kum River.  He was forced to march to North Korea on the Tiger Death March and died at Hanjang0-ni, North Korea, on January 16, 1951.  His remains were not recovered.  There is a marker in Arlington Cemetery in his honor.

Meuse, Clarence Thomas

Private Meuse was a Micmac Indian born July 13, 1929.  Originally from tribal lands at Bear River First Nation near Halifax, Nova Scotia, he enlisted in the US Army from Maine.  He was one of seven children.  He was serving in the 31st Infantry Regiment of the 7th Infantry Division when he was killed in action on November 04, 1952 in the Kumhwa Valley's Triangle Hill.  He is buried in Woodlawn National Cemetery, Elmira, New York.

Miguel, Lloyd Leonard

Private First Class Miguel was born October 13, 1931.  He was a Pima Tribe Native American.  He was serving in I Company, 3rd Battalion, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division when he was killed in action on June 15, 1952 in Korea.  He is buried in East Sacaton Cemetery, Sacaton, Arizona.

Moose, Paul

Private First Class Moose was born January 13, 1930 in Minnesota, the son of Alex and Annie Moose.  He was a Chippewa, Northern White Earth Reservation, Consolidated Chippewas, Ojibwe.  He was stationed in Seattle, Washington when the Korean War broke out.  He attended Isle schools before entering service.  He was serving in the 702nd Ordnance Maintenance Company, 2nd Infantry Division when he was killed in action on September 11, 1950 in the Naktong Bulge.  He is buried in Sunset Cemetery, Isle, Minnesota.

Moses, Walter J.

 Private First Class Moses was born December 13, 1931, a son of Walter Moses Sr. (died 1951) and Marya D. Jones Moses (1911-2006).  His siblings were Gilbert Eugene "Gill" Moses Sr., Victor H. Moses (killed in a logging accident in 1983), Raymond and Daniel Moses, Johanna Moses, Rachel Moses Hood, April Moses Smith, Julie Moses Russell, Vickie Moses Tsoodle, and Teresa Moses Whitish.  Private Moses, a Tulalip, was killed in action in Korea on May 29, 1953 while serving in B Company, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division.  He had enlisted in the Army during his senior year at Marysville High School.  He left for Korea on March 10, 1953 and was killed three months later.  His brother Ray was serving in the same company when Walter was killed.  Walter is buried in Priest Point Cemetery, Marysville, Washington.

Mzhickteno, Vernon L.

Born in Mayetta, Kansas on March 27, 1933, Private First Class Mzhickteno was the son of Peter and Mary Mzhickteno.  A member of the Potawatomi Nation, he moved with his mother to Topeka, Kansas in 1944.  He was serving in Fox Company, 35th Infantry Regiment when he was killed in the Suwon, South Korea area on January 30, 1951.  He is buried in Danceground Cemetery, the Potawatomi tribal cemetery in Mayetta.

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Nenema, Eneas John

Private First Class Nenema was born September 23, 1931.  He was killed in action in the western outposts of Korea on February 09, 1953 while serving in Company C, 1st Battalion, 5th Marines.  Nenema was the son of Frank J. (Francis) Nenema (1910-1976) and Mary Susan Isadore Nenema (1915-1993) of the Kalispel Indian Reservation.  He is buried in Old Kalispel Indian Cemetery, Usk, Washington.

Nez, Felix Raymond

Private First Class Nez was born March 1, 1927.  He was serving in Fox Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division when he was seriously wounded on October 4, 1951.  He was returned to duty on October 10, 1951 and was killed in action in the Chorwon area on October 25, 1951.  He is buried in the Navajo Memorial Cemetery, Fort Defiance, Arizona.

Nolder, Donald Lee Sr.

Donald Lee Nolder Sr., 82, of Fairborn, passed away peacefully in the early morning of Thursday, December 11, 2014 at Patriot Ridge Community, where he had resided for the past three years. He was born in McKeesport, Pennsylvania on January 3, 1932, the son of the late Carl and Ella (McDowell) Nolder Sr. He served his country in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War. Don was very proud of his Native American heritage and was a member of the Council of Three Rivers American Indian Center, Dorseyville, Pennsylvania. His Indian name was "Eagle Feather". Don is survived by his wife of 47 years, Sally A. (Perry) Nolder; daughter, Dawn (Rob) Dutra of Springfield; son, Shawn Carl Nolder of Phoenix, Arizona; grandchildren, Aileen, Alissa, Eric, Austin, Gino, Trina, Tristan, and Stephanie; several great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. A celebration of Don's life will be held at a future date.

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Ochoa, Alberto

Private Ochoa was born July 07, 1928, son of Cipriano and Victoria Ochoa.  He was serving in H Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division when he was killed in action in the Taegu area of Korea on September 15, 1950.  He is buried in  Ajo Cemetery, Ajo, Arizona.  Government records list him as Native American. 

Ontayabbi, Timothy

Corporal Ontayabbi was born February 5, 1927 in Broken Bow, Oklahoma, son of Mrs. Ida Mae Wesley (1906-1989) of Broken Bow, Oklahoma.  He was a Choctaw.  He enlisted on November 21, 1945 and was honorably discharged on November 19, 1946.  He re-enlisted on March 29, 1948 and was honorably discharged on June 27, 1950.  He reupped the next day on June 28, 1950.  He married Bobbie Joan Craun Bryant (1935-2003).  Corporal Ontayabbi was serving with the 5th Ranger Infantry Company (Airborne) attached to the 25th Infantry Division when he was killed in action on June 4, 1951.  He is buried in Saint Matthews Cemetery, Broken Bow.

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Parker, Leroy H.

Corporal Parker was born November 27, 1929.  From the Fort Apache Indian Reservation, he was serving in F Company, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division when he was killed in action in the Chorwon area on July 17, 1952.  He is buried in Whiteriver Cemetery, Whiteriver, Arizona.

Parton, Farrell

Sergeant Parton was born March 17, 1931, the son of Albert and Lydia Williams Parton.  He had siblings Derrith Weldon and four others.    Farrell was serving in F Company, 2nd Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division, when he was killed in action on November 23, 1951.  This Caddo Nation Indian is buried in Memory Lane Cemetery, Anadarko, Oklahoma.

Pepion, Aloysius "Lil Wishy"

Private First Class Pepion was born March 04, 1932 in Pondera County, Montana, a son of Aloysius "Wishy" Pepion (1897-1952) and Rose Bridget Hall Pepion Tatsey (1905-2000).  His siblings were William Martin "Good Rider" Pepion 1924-1966), Mary Louise Pepion Henry (1927-1996) and Irma Frances Pepion St. Germaine (1937-2017).  A Blackfeet Indian from the Blackfleet Indian Reservation, Blackfeet, Montana, Pfc. Pepion was serving in A Company, 1st Battalion, 179th Regiment when he was killed in action at Heartbreak Ridge's Punch Bowl.  He is buried in Robare Cemetery, Pondera County, Montana.

Perez, Alejandro G.

Private Perez was born February 09, 1929.  He was serving in Company C, 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division when he was killed in action on September 03, 1951 at Bloody Ridge.  He is buried in Calvary Cemetery, La Junta, Colorado.

Pete, Gary Pinto

Master Sergeant Pinto was born April 25, 1922 in New Mexico.  Believed to be a Native American Ute, his mother was Minnie Pinto o Fruitland, New Mexico.  He was a World War II veteran recalled to active duty in the Korean War from the Enlisted Reserve Corps.  He went missing in action at the Naktong Bulge on August 11, 1950 and was presumed dead on December 31, 1953.  To learn more about the battle in which Sergeant Pete went missing, read South to the Naktong, North to the Yalu, pages 325-326.

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Rasha, Willie

Pfc. Rasha was born August 31, 1925 and was a Choctaw Indian.  This World War II and Korean War veteran was the son of Vannie Rasha of Ardmore, Oklahoma.  He was serving in G Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Regimental Combat Team when he was killed in action on May 27, 1951 at Hakongjong-ni.  He is buried in Concord Cemetery, Ardmore.

Red Horn, William

Born January 10, 1933, Pfc. Red Horn was from the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, Standing Rock Reservation, Standing Rock Jurisdiction.  He was serving with Headquarters, Headquarters Company, 21st Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division, when he was killed in action December 09, 1951.  He is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

Reevis, Herbert Joseph

Private First Class Reevis was born March 11, 1930 in Browning, Montana, a son of James Robert Reevis Sr. (1906-1998) and Nelly Bullshoe Reevis (1909-1978).  His siblings were Lorraine White Grass, Sharon Reevis LaPlant, Beverly Kittson (1926-2016), William Gordon (1931-1965), Wilbur Thomas (1934-1986), Frederick "Freddie" James (1928-2004), Herman Lee (1944-1999), James "Jimmy" Robert (1948-2003, Merlin Robert (1932-1934) and Russell Calf Robe.  Herbert was serving in H Company, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division when he was killed in action at Chipyong-ni February 14, 1951.  He was the grandson of Crow Chief Reevis of the Blackfeet Pikuni.  Herbert is buried in Saint Michaels Catholic Cemetery in Browning, Montana.

Rice, John Raymond

[KWE Note: The following was found on the Sioux City History.Org website.]

In August 1951 Sioux City became embroiled in a bitter controversy that erupted when officials at Memorial Park Cemetery refused to bury Sergeant John R. Rice, a decorated World War II veteran and Korean War casualty, because of his Native American ancestry. The event provoked public outrage both locally and nationally and eventually required the personal intervention of President Harry Truman. The treatment of Rice tarnished Sioux City's reputation with the stigma of racism and left a wound between the city and local Native American groups for the next fifty years. However, it also created the opportunity for reconciliation between the two sides five decades later and the long overdue redemption of Sergeant Rice and his family.

Rice's story had its beginnings on the battlefields of Korea where he was killed on September 6, 1950 while leading a squad of riflemen against an enemy assault near the village of Tabu-Dong. Nearly a year passed before his body was shipped home to Winnebago, Nebraska in August 1951. Thereafter, Evelyn, who was white, purchased a lot for her husband at Memorial Park Cemetery in Sioux City without incident. During the funeral on August 28 a cemetery official noticed the large number of Native Americans at the service and was subsequently informed that Rice was himself part Native American. At the conclusion of the service Evelyn and the rest of the Rice family were informed of the cemetery's "Caucasians only" policy and were forced to take his body back to Winnebago. Cemetery officials later defended their actions saying, "Private cemeteries have always had a right to be operated for a particular group such as Jewish, Catholic, Lutheran, Negro, Chinese, etc., not because of any prejudice against any race, but because people, like animals, prefer to be with their own kind." They continued to assert that they had a legal obligation to deny Rice's burial or face prosecution from lot owners for breech of contract.

When the local media received word of what had transpired at Memorial Park, the news was quickly put out over the newswire and began making national headlines. Across the country people responded with a combination of disbelief and outrage that an American war hero and his family could be treated in such a fashion. Oliver LaFarge, spokesman for the Association of American Indian Affairs said, "This is horrible. The manifestation of such an inhuman and anti-American attitude brings disgrace upon our country." When President Harry Truman learned about the incident during a press conference the following day he rebuked both the cemetery officials and Sioux City's leaders. He also authorized his military aid Major General Harry Vaughn to send a telegram to Rice's family offering to bury him in Arlington National Cemetery.

In Sioux City the reaction was every bit as negative as it had been on the national level. The Sioux City metropolitan council of the United Packinghouse Workers of America adopted a resolution condemning the actions of the cemetery and declared that the flag should not be flown "in such an un-American place." Though the city council passed a resolution expressing regret for the incident and Mayor Dan Conley traveled to Winnebago and personally apologized at an American Legion meeting there, Evelyn Rice and her family rejected all offers to bury Sergeant Rice locally. He was finally laid to rest with full military honors on September 5, 1951 in Arlington National Cemetery.

The legacy of the Sergeant Rice affair is one of injustice, betrayal, and bitterness, but it is also one of redemption and hope. The event scarred Evelyn Rice and her family permanently and it severely damaged Sioux City's reputation. Yet, despite the damage it caused, Sergeant Rice's ordeal also laid the groundwork for future progress. Memorial Park eventually abolished its race restriction and has been open to all races for years. The incident was a pivotal moment for the Native American civil rights movement because it illuminated the prejudice and injustice faced by Native Americans while emphasizing their positive roll in American society. It also began a process by which the people of Sioux City began to confront the less savory aspects of their past. At a memorial ceremony held in honor of Sergeant Rice and his family in August 2001, Native American rights activist Frank Lamere's read statement spoke poignantly of the Rice affair. He was quoted to have said "We have come far at the expense of Sergeant John Rice and the Gold Star family he left behind. Our respect for one another this day is their legacy and speaks to the possibilities. The bridges we can build tomorrow will be strong if we do not forget that the foundation was laid on a battlefield in Korea."

Rickard, N.L.

Staff Sergeant Rickard was born December 09, 1922 in Alabama, the son of Sellers and Myrtie Richard [Rickard].  N.L. was a World War II veteran who served with the 1st Infantry Division.  Serving three years and three months overseas during that war, he participated in the Normandy Landing and received a Purple Heart for action in combat in Germany.  Later he was with occupation forces in Europe.  He was a Bronze Star recipient.  Two years after returning to the States he was sent to Korea.  He was serving in the 34th Infantry Regiment, B Company, 1st Battalion when he was killed in action in Korea on August 15, 1950.  He is buried in Edgemont Cemetery, Anniston, Alabama.  He was married to Margaret Lorraine Sewell (later Mrs. Herman Hezel Gilley 1922-2004).  Sergeant Rickard was a member of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians.  His tribal family was from the Atmore Creek Indian Reservation.

Robinson, Donald Wilbur

Private Robinson was born August 10, 1929.  While serving in F Company, 2nd Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division, he was killed in action on August 21, 1951.  He is buried in the Indian Church Burial Ground, Charlestown, Rhode Island.

Robinson, Ernest

Sergeant Robinson was born November 11, 1931 (possibly 1932) and was a member of the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe, Leech Lake, Pillager, Minnesota.  He was a member of Battery Dl, 82nd Anti-aircraft Artillery (automatic weapons) Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division, when he was taken prisoner of war near Hoengsong, South Korea on February 13, 1951.  He died en route to the Suwon holding camp in North Korea on March 31, 1951.  There is a marker for him in Pine Grove Cemetery, Cass Lake, Minnesota.

Roosevelt, Franklin Theodore

Private First Class Roosevelt was born March 21, 1931 in Whiteriver, Arizona.  A full-blooded Navajo Indian, he died October 06, 1952 in the Kumhwa area of Korea whle serving in the 17th Infantry Regiment of the 7th Infantry Division.  He is buried in Whiteriver Cemetery, Whiteriver, Arizona.

Roy, Francis

Private First Class Roy was born June 902, 1928.  He was killed in action on March 12, 1952 while serving in G Company, 2nd Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division.  From the Ojibwe Tribe, Consolidated Chippewa Agency, he is buried in Nett Lake Cemetery, Nett Lake, Minnesota.

Roy, William Francis

Private First Class Roy was born April 15, 1928, a son of Joseph Roy (1888-1971).  His siblings were Evelyn Isabel Gordon (1912-1980), Roseanna L. Buffalo (1914-1997), Gladys Angeline DePerry (1922-2013), Lionel Gerald Roy (1924-2009), Korean War veteran Melvin George Roy (1932-1989), and Delores DePerry Bainbridge.  Private Roy was serving in E Company, 2nd Battalion, 180th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division when he was killed in action at T-Bone Hill (Hill 290) in Korea.  An Ojibwe Native American, his remains have not yet been recovered.

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Sandoval, Leopold

Corporal Sandoval, a Native American from Lukachukai, Arizona, was born March 15, 1927 in Lukachukai, Arizona, son of Leopold Sandoval (born 1906) and Jauna Sandoval (born 1904). Sandoval.  He went missing in action on November 30, 1950 at the Kunu-Ri Gauntlet, Chongchon River while serving in C Battery, 37th Field Artillery Battalion, 2nd Infantry Division.

Scarbrough, Everett Doyle

Master Sergeant Scarbrough went missing in action following the ditching of a Globemaster off the coast of Ireland in 1951.  (See his bio on Airplane Crashes - Globemaster - Ireland on the KWE.)  He was born October 19, 1924 in Oklahoma, son of John Wesley Scarbrough (Indian Territory Oklahoma) and Jessie Beulah Johnson Scarbrough (Chickasaw Nation).  

Shields, Mark Raymond

Pfc. Shields was born February 12, 1913, son of George and Grace Shields.  He enlisted in the Army at Fort Snelling, Minnesota on October 27, 1944 and served in World War II.  He was serving in the 72nd Engineer Combat Company, C Company, when he was killed in action at Chindong-ni, Korea.  He is buried in Christs Episcopal Church Cemetery, Fort Thompson, South Dakota.  He was survived by his wife Doris Louise Coler Shields and son Mark Raymond Shields Jr. (1936-2015).  Pfc. Shields was a Sioux American Indian--Lower Yanktonai Sioux and Lower Brule Sioux.

Shunkamolah, Harry Stanley

Born August 23, 1927 in Hominy, Oklahoma, he was the son of Joseph Shunkamolah (1890-1949) and Margaret Shonkamolah (1894-1981).  He was seriously wounded in Korea while serving in Company I, 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, and died of wounds on December 1, 1950 at Hagaru-ri, Chosin Reservoir.  His siblings were Carrie A. (1910-1926), Joe Shunkamolah Jr., Fred Shunkamolah (1912-1947), Charles "Xu-Tha-Tsa-Ke" Shunkamolah (1915-1936), Joann Shunkamolah Alred (1926-1996), Lottie Ann Shunkamolah Pratt (1919-2003), and Gladys Belle Shunkamolah Rouwalk (1921-1991).  A member of the Eagle Clan, Osage Indians, he is buried in A.J. Powell Memorial Cemetery, Hominy, Oklahoma.

Smith, Harper H.

Private First Class Smith was born January 09, 1924, son of William and Nellie Smith.  He was a Muskogee Creek and Koasati American Indian.  Harper enlisted in the Army on July 28, 1944.  He was killed in action at Taejon, Korea on July 20, 1950 while serving in B Company, 1st Battalion, 34th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division.  He is buried in Smith Family Cemetery, Dustin, Oklahoma.

Smith, Isaac

Private Smith was born February 07, 1932 in Lower Lake, California.  This Native American was killed in action on June 15, 1953 while serving in H Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment in Korea.  He is buried in Lower Lake Cemetery, Lower Lake, California.

Snell, Delbert Ray

Private First Class Snell was born September 28, 1930, the son of William Curtis "Babe" Snell (1903-1977).  His stepmother was Jane Ortley Snell (19904-1999).  His siblings were William and Curtis Snell.  His half siblings were George Snell and David L. Snell (1934-2007).  Delbert Ray Snell was serving in F Company, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division when he was killed in action on March 08, 91951 during Operation Ripper.  He received a Bronze Star for valor.  He is buried in Harlem Cemetery, Harlem, Montana.

Spotted Bear, Ignatius R.

Private First Class Spotted Bear was born October 28, 1928 in McLean County, North Dakota, a son of Justin and Stella Tail Spotted Bear.  Ignatius was a member of the Grosventre tribe, Fort Berthold Reservation.  He was serving in Company E, 2nd Battalion, 5th Regimental Combat Team in the Punchbowl area of Korea when he was killed in action on June 22, 1952 near Haen Myon.  Private Spotted Bear's siblings were Julia (1915-1921), Lorenzo "Larry" (1918-1954) and Eugenia (1924-1926).  Ignatius is buried in St. Josephs Catholic Cemetery, Twin Buttes, North Dakota.

Stand, Curtis Hoover

Private First Class Stand was born January 06, 1928, a son of Robin Bruce Stann [sic] (1861-1938) and Charlotte Walkingstick Stann [sic] (1893-1940).  He was a Native American from the Tahlequah Indian Territory in Oklahoma.  His siblings were Lizzy L. Stand (1914-1999), Charlie Stand, Lena Mae Stand Grigsby (1917-1981), Polly A. Stand Coombes (1924-1990), George Stand (1925-1994), Emmaline, Dan, and Hester Jean Anderson (1933-2001).  He also had half siblings Sally Stand (1891-1907), Richard Catcher Stand (1894-1978), and Taylor Bruce Stand (1899-1970).  Private Stand was killed in action on February 10, 1951 in Sogu, Korea.  He is buried in Ketcher Cemetery, Stilwell, Oklahoma.  Curtis was a medical aidman.  His brother George was a Silver Star recipient from the Korean War. 

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T

Tahsequah, Meech Glen

Lieutenant Colonel Tahsequah was serving with a maintenance squadron in Korea when he went missing in action on December 6, 1950. He was declared dead on February 28, 1954. He flew over 300 combat hours and 31 bombing missions during World War II. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Air Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, and a Purple Heart with two Oak Leaf Cluster.  Born on October 27, 1918, he was the son of George Tahsequah and Pansy Sep Cut, and the foster son of Charles and Vera Komah of Walters, Oklahoma.  His wife was Evelyn L. Tahsequah of Lawton, Oklahoma.  He was a Comanche.  Meech joined the Air Corps on July 14, 1941 and flew 31 combat missions in World War II.  During the Korean War the B-26B (tail number 44-34222) ran out of fuel and the crew bailed out over the Sea of Japan.  Meech was missing in action on December 06, 1950 and declared dead on February 28, 1954.

Tainpeah, Luke Buddy

Sergeant Tainpeah was serving with the 187th Airborne Infantry Regimental Combat Team when he was killed in action on March 28, 1951 at Parun-ni, South Korea (Hill 228).  A Kiowa, he was born on November 1, 1923 at Anadarko, Oklahoma, son of Guy Tainpeah and Blanche Lucy Jackson.  Luke was a former Cameron College boxer and was twice a Golden Glove champion.  His siblings were Mrs. Marcos "Mickey" (Cleo L. Botone) Enriguez (1933-2003), Ivy Ahtape (1913-1915), Alfred John Ahtapety (1917-1944), and Mrs. Harry (Flora Belle Tainpeah) Schrock (1919-2018).  Luke Buddy Tainpeah, who also served during World War II, is buried in Fort Sill Post Cemetery.

Tallsalt, Howard

Private First Class Tallsalt was born January 1, 1933 in Tonalea, Coconino County, Arizona.  He was killed in action in the western outpost campaign of the Korean War on Octyober 27, 1952 while serving in C Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Marines.  He is buried in the Navajo Memorial Cemetery, Fort Defiance, Arizona.

Tallwhiteman, Clarence

Pfc. Tallwhiteman was born December 23, 1918, a son of John and Eleanor Starvingbear Tallwhiteman.  He and his wife Martha Crawling married in Montana in 1936 and they were parents of Rose Marie Tallwhiteman (1936-1936), Ida Tallwhiteman (1937-1940), and Carl Raymond Tallwhiteman (1941-1987).  A full-blooded Cheyenne, he was serving with K Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division, when he was killed in action in Korea on October 16, 1951.  He is buried in Custer National Cemetery.

Tepakeyah, Julius Simon

Private Julius Simon Tepakeyah was born January 03, 1931.  He was the son of Mrs. Alice Tepakeyah of Petroskey, Michigan.  Simon was killed in action on July 16, 1950 in the Kum River area while serving in C Company, 1st Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division.  He is buried in Saint Ignatius Cemetery, Friendship Township, Michigan.

Thomas, Gerald Stanton

Corporal Thomas was born June 25, 1932 in Buffalo, New York, a son of Johnson and Clara Thomas.  His sibling was Larry Thomas.  Originally living in Ohsweken, Ontario, Canada's Six Nations of the Grand River First Nation Indian Reservation, he was killed in action on October 15, 1952 at Triangle Hill while serving in Company F, 2nd Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division.  His remains were not recovered.

Thompson, Sequoyah

Corporal Thompson was born May 14, 1932.  A Native American Cherokee who attended Chilocco Indian Agriculture School at Chilocco, Oklahoma.  He was killed in action on January 24, 1952 in the Chorwon area while serving in C Company, 1st Battalion, 279th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division.  According to his family, his remains were not recovered because he threw himself on a grenade to protect his company.

Thunder Horse, Roland

Roland Thunder Horse was born on June 27, 1933, at Greenwood, Charles Mix County, South Dakota, to Charles Thunder Horse and Helen (Thunder Horse) Little Owl. Roland was 17 when he enlisted in the Army. On August 28, 1948, he entered active service at Fort Crook, NE, and became part of the 6th Engineers, Heave Shop Company, stationed at San Francisco, CA, and he went overseas as part of the Occupation forces stationed in Okinawa and transferred to Korea at the beginning of the war. Private First Class Roland Thunder Horse was killed in Korea on November 1, 1951.  He was a member of Headquarters and Service Company, 10th Engineer Combat Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division.  He was driving a three-quarter ton truck when he missed a curve, the truck overturned, and he was killed. on November 1, 1951.  He is buried in Holy Fellowship Episcopal Church Cemetery, Greenwood, South Dakota.  He was from the Yankton Indian Reservation.

Toho, Melvin

Sergeant Toho was born on May 12, 1929, son of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Toho.  He was a member of I Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, First Marine Division when he died of "other causes" in the western outposts of Korea on May 2, 1952.  The Native American is buried in Binger Cemetery, Binger, Oklahoma.

Tom, Richard Leonard

Private First Class Tom was born March 05, 1927, son of Harry Tom of Wapato, Washington.  He was a Yakima Tribe Native American.  He died on March 04, 1953 in Korea while serving in A Company, 1st Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division.  He is buried in Enoch Cemetery, Wapato, Washington.

Torres, Jose Camelio

Private First Class Torres was born August 30, 1929.  He was adopted by Jose Antonio Montoya.  He was a Pueblo Native American from the Tegua Tribe, San Juan Reservation.  He was the husband of Mrs. Nickolacita L. Torres of Sandia Pueblo.  He died April 10, 1952 while serving in F Company, 2nd Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division.  He is buried in San Juan Pueblo Catholic Cemetery, San Juan Pueblo, New Mexico.  He was the recipient of a Bronze Star for Valor.

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Under Baggage, Alfred

Born April 16, 1928 in Rapid City, South Dakota, Alfred was a son of Charles and Nancy Take Under Baggage of Potato Creek, South Dakota.  He was an Oglala Sioux from the Pine Ridge Agency and enlisted in the Army on November 18, 1947.  He trained at Fort Knox, Kentucky and then was stationed at Camp Pickett, Virginia.  He escorted the body of his older brother Charles, whose body was being returned from a foreign cemetery and reburied in the Black Hills National Cemetery, Sturgis.  Other duty stations for Alfred were Camp Campbell, Kentucky; Fort Bragg, North Carolina; Fort Benning, Georgia; Fort Lawton, Oklahoma; and Fort Meade, Maryland.  He reenlisted on July 13, 1950 at Fort Campbell and was then sent to Korea.  In Korea he was serving with A Battery, 57th Field Artillery Battalion (105mm), 7th Infantry Division, when he was killed/missing in action in the Chosin Reservoir campaign, North Korea.  There is a memorial stone for him at the Black Hills National Cemetery.

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V

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W

Warlie, Will Yaney

Sergeant Warlie was born January 21, 1928, in the Sunland Indian Reservation, Owens Valley, California, a son of Lee and Francis E. Warlie (1908-1975).  His sister was Kathy Warlie.  While serving in E Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, Sergeant Warlie was killed in action December 03, 1950 in the Chosin Reservoir campaign.  He is buried in West Line Street Cemetery, Inyo County, California.

Warrior, Rufus Charles Jr.

Corporal Warrior was a Gros Ventre Assiniboine tribe member.  He was born October 29, 1931 on the Fort Belnap Reservation, a son of Rufus Charles "Bogey" Warrior Sr. (1883-1967) and Jeanette Perry Warrior (1904-1998).  His siblings were Elizabeth Warrior Main (1927-2011), Christian Stanislaus Warrior (1929-1998), Korean War/Vietnam War veteran Kenneth Thomas Warrior (1933-2016), Wilfred Arthur Warrior (1937-2021) and Franklin Joseph Warrior (1944-1944).  He was serving in F Company, 2nd Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment when he was killed in action fighting for Old Baldy in the Chorwon, Korea, area.  He is buried in Saint Paul Mission Cemetery, Hays, Montana.

Wewason, Raymond

Corporal Wewason was born in Wisconsin in 1922, the son of Leo W. Wewason and Delia B. Wewason (born 1892).  His sisters was Mrs. Gilbert (Melvina) Shegonee of Crandon, Wisconsin.  Corporal Wewason was a Wisconsin Potawatomi Indian, Laona Sub-Agency, Lac du Flambeau, Wisconsin, who attended high school for two years before joining the military.  He was killed in action on September 21, 1950 in the Taegu area while serving in the  8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division.

Whitebear, Arthur John

Private First Class Whitebear was born August 18, 1927, the son of Mrs. Elsie Whitebear of Welch, Minnesota.  He was a Winnebago Ho Chunk American Indian from the Tomah Indian School Agency, Tomah, Wisconsin.  He died December 02, 1950 at the Chosin Reservoir while serving in C Company, 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division.  He is buried in Ft. Snelling National Cemetery.

White Lightning, Peter

Private White Lightning was born October 18, 1928, the son of Harry White Lightning (1894-1957) and Mary E. White Lightning (later Thompson) (1896-1967).  Of Sioux heritage, he was killed in action on November 11, 1950 at Packcha-Dong North, Sibyon-Ni area while serving in L Company, 3rd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division.  He is buried in Saint Elizabeth Cemetery, Cannon Ball, North Dakota.

Whiterock, Gerald Benson

Private Whiterock was born November 18, 1934, a son of Mamie Prentice Whiterock (1910-1998).  Her sibling was Roderic W. "Porkchop" Whiterock (1939-1983).  The Whiterocks were from the Western Shoshone Reservation, Shoshone Paiute Tribe in Wisconsin.  Private Whiterock was killed in action on July 09, 1953 at Pork Chop Hill in Korea while serving in C Company, 1st Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division.  He is buried in Owyhee East Side Cemetery, Owyhee, Nevada.

Wilson, Herbert

Private First Class Wilson was born July 31, 1926.  From New Mexico, he was serving in I Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines when he was killed in action in Korea on September 01, 1951 in the Punchbowl area.  He is buried in Santa Fe National Cemetery, Santa Fe, New Mexico.  He was the son of Mrs. Katherine Wilson of Zuni, New Mexico.

 

Woman Dress, Patrick Raymond

Private Woman Dress was born November 01, 1928.  He was an Oglala Sioux from the Pine Ridge Reservation and was a World War II and Korean War veteran.  He was killed in action on September 24, 1951 at Heartbreak Ridge while serving in B Company, 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division.  He is buried in Holy Rosary Mission Cemetery, Pine Ridge, South Dakota.  The KWE believes that he was a son of Edward and Lizzie Woman Dress.

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XYZ

Young Bear, Jasper Lee

Sergeant Young Bear was born November 6, 1929 and was a member of the Grosventre tribe in North Dakota.  He was serving inK Company, 3rd Battalion, 38th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division.  He died on September 18, 1952 in the battle for Old Baldy in the Chorwon area.  Sergeant Young Bear is buried in St. Josephs Catholic Cemetery, Twin Buttes, North Dakota.  He was the brother of L. Buddy Gwin.

Youngblood, James "Jim" Louis

Private First Class Youngblood was born September 05, 1929, the son of Elmer Ray Youngblood (1894-1985) and Rosa L. King Youngblood (1898-1994).  His sister was Evelyn Y. Youngblood Carnahan (born 1936). Jim was serving in H Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division when he was killed in action at The Hook, Changmok-Tong, Korea, on October 27, 1952.  He is buried in Fern Park Cemetery, Natchitoches, Louisiana.  He was a Native American.


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Deaths Outside of Theatre

Black Tail Deer, Gerald

Private Black Tail Deer was serving in the United States Marine Corps when he died of other causes at San Diego, California, on August 15, 1951.

Brown, Tony H.

Born September 3, 1931, he was the son of Jake and Mary Stewart Brown.  While in service to his country he died of internal injuries when the automobile he was in tipped over at Chinle, Arizona.  This Navajo Indian was a Pfc. in Sixth Company, AUS 6230th Reception Center.  He is buried in Navajo Veterans Cemetery, Fort Defiance, Arizona.

Chato, Everett

Private First Class Chato was born January 16, 1934, a son of Jack Chato (1893-1969) and Nedebah Roanhorse Chato (1899-1982).  His siblings were Ella Chato Begay, Monica and Moriah Chato, Melvin Chato (1915-1974), Edgar Chato (1917-2003), Jeanette Chato Thomas (1920-2014, Sadie Chato Hardy, Sallie Chato Johnny (1925-2015), Nart Chato (1923-1960), John Chato (1929-1945), Vincent Chato (1940-2007) and Yanebah Chato Francisco.  Everett Chato died on December 26, 1953 while serving in Japan (Kashiwara).  He is buried in the Navajo Veterans Cemetery, Fort Defiance, Arizona.

Fairbanks, Franklin B. "Frank"

Born February 02, 1933, he was the son of Joseph Michael "Mike" Fairbanks (1886-1974) and Grace N. Fairbanks (1894-1971), and the half brother of Alfred W. Fairbanks (1926-2011).  He died on March 20, 1952 and his gravestone lists 3352 AF Training Company.  The KWE is unsure if he died stateside or in Korea.  He is buried in Saint Josephs Cemetery, Ball Club, Minnesota.  He is listed on an Ojibwe veterans memorial website (www.ojibwe.org).

Miller, Ned

Private First Class Miller was born May 10, 1926 and died on September 2, 1950 while in service in the 1st Assault Signal Company, Headquarters Battalion, US Marine Corps.  It is unclear to the KWE where his death took place and the circumstances.  He is buried in the Navajo Memorial Cemetery, Fort Defiance, Arizona.

Night Pipe, Ben Denver

Corporal Night Pipe was born in 1928, a son of Clarence Night Pipe (1902-1962) and Winnie Prue Night Pipe (1908-1980).  Corporal Night Pipe was in Germany when he was fatally injured on September 02, 1951.  He accidentally fell over a bench and struck his head on cobblestones at the Baumholder armored force training group in the French Zone.  His siblings were Martha Night Pipe (1927-1932), Katherine Mary Willcuts (1929-1999), Leona Harsin Gareaux (1932-2008), Bernice Verna Willcuts (1934-1995). Velma Grace Reifel (1938-2017), Florine Marie Fast Horse (1940-2014), and Willa Jean (1943-1967).  Corporal Night Pipe is buried in St. Peters Catholic Cemetery, Okreek, South Dakota.

Platero, John B.

Corporal Platers was born January 28, 1932.  He served in Company K, 147th Infantry Regiment until he was discharged February 20, 1954.  He died four days later on February 24, 1954.  His place of death or circumstances is unclear.  He is buried in the Navajo Memorial Cemetery, Fort Defiance, Arizona.

Red Paint, Noah

Noah Red Paint was born October 20, 1927, at Pine Ridge, Shannon County, South Dakota to Alfred Red Paint and Edna (Red Paint) Soldier Hawk. Noah went to school at the No. 5 Day School in Oglala. Noah first entered the service in January of 1948 at Fort Warren, Wyoming, and served overseas from August of 1949 until November of 1951. After he returned to the United States, Red Paint reenlisted at Fort Sill in Oklahoma. On June 3, 1953, Private Noah Red Paint died at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He is buried in Makasan Presbyterian Cemetery, Oglala, South Dakota.


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Native American Korean War Veterans of Note

Adams, Louis "Louie"

An acclaimed Salish elder, Adams was born on Flathead Reservation near Missoula, Montana.  He joined the Navy at age 18 in 1951 and served aboard the USS Hubbard during the Korean War.  After his military service he returned to Montana and began a 20-year career with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Tribal Forestry.  He was also the historian of the Salish people.

Amerson, James E. "Jim"

Born in 1931, he was the son of Lola Maud Johnston, a Chickasaw enrollee.  He served in the Korean War as combat tank commander in the 175th Heavy Tank Company.  After the war he graduated from college and became a self-employed engineer.  He also taught at McCloud (Oklahoma) High School, a football coach, and was director of Boys State in Oklahoma.

Autry, Otwa T.

The military service of this Muscogee-Creek Indian in the Oklahoma National Guard spanned 34 years.  Working his way up the ranks, he became division artillery commander.  He served in World War II and Korea, and during those wars he was awarded the Silver Star, a Bronze Star, two bronze arrowhead for amphibious landing, and ten battle stars.  He was commander of the 45th's 189th Field Artillery Unit until May 1952. The 189th delivered some of the heaviest artillery fire during the battles for Hills 191 (T-Bone Ridge) and 275 (Old Baldy) during the summer of 1952.  Autry later became a Brigadier General.

Baker, Colbert Latimer "Bud"

Born in 1925, Lieutenant Baker was a World War II and Korean War veteran.  During the Korean War he served on the USS Toledo and USS Los Angeles.  He was founder of the family-owned Chickasaw Distributors, a company that earned $200 million annually.  He was inducted into the Chickasaw Hall of Fame in 2013 for his contributions to the Chickasaw people.  He died March 03, 2017 at the age of 91 in his home on Margo Island, Florida.

Begay, Fred

Dr. Fred Begay, born in 1932 on the Ute Mountain Indian Reservation in Colorado, is a Navajo nuclear physicist and a Korean War veteran who served in the U.S. Air Force. Dr. Begay was profiled in the 1979 NOVA documentary, The Long Walk of Fred Young.  Besides thermonuclear fusion, he has a strong interest in Navajo religion.

Brave Heart, Basil

This Oglala Sioux and Korean War veteran led the effort to change the name of Harney Peak in South Dakota to Black Elk Peak.  Black Elk Peak is located on federal land.

Campbell, Ben Nighthorse

Born April 13, 1933 in Auburn, California, his father was a Northern Cheyenne.  During the Korean War he served in the Air Force from 1951 to 1953, gaining the rank of Airman Second Class while stationed in Korea, where he served in a police unit.  After military service he became a three-time US judo champion who won a gold medal in the Pan-American Games 1963.  The next year he was captain of the US judo team at the Tokyo Olympics and later coached an international judo team.  From 1987 to 1993 he served as a U.S. Representative.  He was the only Native American US Senator from 1993 to 2005.

Clark, Joseph James "Jocko"

Clark, a Cherokee, was the first Native American to obtain the rank of admiral.  In the Korean War he was commander of the 7th Fleet.  He was also the first Native American to graduate from the U.S. Naval Academy (1917).

Emhoolah, John Jr.

John Emhoolah Jr. (Kiowa name Pbonh Goot Thay meaning Yellow Bead), 91, was born on October 12, 1929 in Lawton, Oklahoma, the eldest son to John Emhoolah Sr. and Matilda Aquodle Emhoolah. He joined the Oklahoma Thunderbirds while still in high school, and served in the Korean War.  Later he helped lobby for the passage of the Native American Religious Freedom Act.  John entered his heavenly home on April 21, 2021 surrounded by his loved ones in his home at Thornton, Colorado.

John was raised on the family homestead in the Anadarko area, graduated high school from Riverside Indian School. In his higher education, he attended Wichita State University and completed his Bachelors of Education Degree at the Colorado State University in Fort Collins, CO. On March 16, 1951 John married Geneva Yeahquo at Ware's Chapel in Anadarko and with God's grace and mercy this past March they celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.

John Emhoolah was a proud Korean War Veteran serving in the US Army 45th Thunderbird Division, "B" Battery, 158th Field Artillery from 1950-1952 and was honorably discharged. John continued his support to American Indian veterans by serving on the National Native American Veterans Memorial Advisory Committee to create a national memorial for all to learn of the proud and courageous tradition of service of Native Americans in the Armed Forces of the US. This memorial was dedicated in November 2020 in a prominent location of the NMAI on the National Mall where the legacy of the enduring and distinguished service of Native American veterans in every branch of US military will receive the national recognition it deserves.

After serving in the military, John began his working career at the Boeing Company as a Draftsman Engineer in Wichita, KS and Everett, WA. In 1970 he began his educational career in Seattle, Washington as Director for the Seattle Public Schools Indian Education Program and soon became the Assistant Dean for Green River Community College in Auburn, WA. During this period John held the position as Professor for the University of Washington and created the Native American Studies program. He co-founded and the first Chairman for the United Tribes Indian Foundation, founder and first Chairman for Seattle Indian Health Board, and founder, President of the Northwest Inter-tribal Club and held several other civic positions in the Seattle area. One of his favorite accomplishments was providing the Washington State Government officials to mediate a compromise between the tribes and state and they settled for a 50/50 split on fishing rights in the early 70's.

In 1975, John accepted a position with the American Indian Higher Education Consortium in Denver, Colorado. John assisted with the lobbying efforts for educational funding for tribal colleges; he assisted in the planning and openings of several tribal colleges that are still in existence today. He worked briefly at the Kiowa Tribe as Deputy Tribal Administrator and in 1997 he accepted the position as Director for the Adams County Five Star Schools Indian Education program support services to American Indian students and creating awareness of American Indian history, culture, & contemporary issues. He retired honorably and logged in over 50 years of service in the field of education.

John led the Denver Indian community for many years � people from many tribal nations across the country �in breathing new life into their heritage. We are proud that much of the American Indian culture is preserved due to his dedicated efforts and his commitment in educating educational systems from K-12 to colleges and universities with Native American studies including Harvard, Yale and Princeton. John Emhoolah works to build bridges of understanding between cultures. John voiced his belief that "We are all connected, we all need each other".

He was a co-founder of the internationally famous Denver March Pow-wow where he served in numerous leadership roles of the Denver March Powwow Committee. He volunteered countless hours to advisory roles for Native American Resource Group at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, Denver Public Schools, Denver Mayor's Advisory Council, University of Denver, University of Colorado, Denver Art Museum, Tesoro Cultural Center, History Colorado, Tallbull Memorial Council, and has received many, many achievement awards including the recipient of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Award, Tesoro Foundation Honored Veteran, DMNS Educator of Year Award and National Indian Education Association Educator of the Year Award.

John maintained an active role in his traditional Kiowa societies and was a member of the O-Ho-Mah War Dance Society, Kiowa Gourd Clan, Kiowa Black Leggings Society Ton-Kon-Gah and a lifetime member of the Kiowa Native American Church. John carried his message of traditional spiritual ways and believed in prayer and prayed for all people. He was inspirational in the passage of the American Indian Religious Act in the 1980's.

He is survived by his wife Geneva Emhoolah of Thornton, CO; three daughters; Glenna Emhoolah of Carnegie, OK, Deb Emhoolah and companion Manny Saumpty of Anadarko, OK, Cheryl Cozad and husband Andrew Cozad of Northglenn, CO. Five brothers; Parker Emhoolah of Lawton, OK, Farrell Emhoolah of Albuquerque, NM, Lonnie Emhoolah of Lawton, OK, Michael Emhoolah of Oklahoma City, OK and Richard Emhoolah of Idabel, OK. Six grandchildren; Crystal Whiteshield of Billings, MT, Kaylen Tofpi of Carnegie, OK, Leonard K. Cozad of Denver, CO, Raelene Whiteshield of Northglenn, CO, John Cozad of Northglenn, CO, Ned Tofpi of Albuquerque, NM and Ray Eagleboy Whiteshield of Moore, OK. Fifteen great-grandchildren Arianne Sheka, Matthew Sheka, Maximus Sheka, Rhiannon Eaglespeaker, Daisy Eaglespeaker, Joslyn Runningwolf, Josie Runningwolf, Wades Runningwolf, Michaela Runningwolf, Charlie Whiteshield Rayelee Ann Whiteshield, Gerald Tahkofper, Alysa Tahkofper, Karlee Tahkofper, and Michael Roger Tofpi. Two great-great granddaughters; Raine and Blaire. Adopted relatives; brother Kenny Scabbyrobe family of Whiteswan, WA, Brother Dennis Bighair family of Garryowen, MT, Son Patrick Goggles Family of Ethete, WY, Son John Yellowmule of Wyola, MT, Son Lanny Realbird family of Crow Agency, MT, son Florentine Bluethunder, and late brother Gail Baker Sr. family. Numerous other relatives and adopted relatives across Indian Country and Canada.

He is preceded in death by his parents John and Matilda Emhoolah, brother Hubert Emhoolah, sister Annette Emhoolah Garza, sister Doris Emhoolah Jake, cousin Milney Dawes, niece Karen Harrison, nephew Patrick Emhoolah, nephew Michael Emhoolah and great-granddaughter Allison Eaglespeaker.

Grant, Saginaw Morgan

A Marine Corps veteran of the Korean War, he was born July 20, 1936, son of Austin Grant Sr. and Sarah Murray Grant, at Pawnee Indian Hospital, Pawnee, Oklahoma.  A member of the Sac-n-Fox, Iowa and Otoe-Missouria Nations, he was a big screen and television actor, dancer, and motivational speaker.  He died July 28, 2021.

McGaa, Ed "Eagle Man" 

He was born April 16, 1936 on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota.  He was a member of the Pglala Lakota tribe and author of popular books on Native American spirituality and ecology.  He was a U.S. Marine Corps veteran of the Korean War and a decorated Vietnam War veteran. One of the founders of Democracy Corps, a liberal political research group.  Went on 110 combat missions in Vietnam.  He died August 25, 2017.

Mossman, Douglas Kinilau

Born April 07, 1933 in Honolulu, Hawaii, this native Hawaiian graduated from Kamehameha schools in 1950 and then served six years in the military, including action in the Korean War.  From 1959 to 1963 he played security officer Moke on the television series Hawaiian Eye.  In 1974 he became a series regular on Hawaii Five-O as Detective Frank Hamana.  He made appearances on Magnum P.I., The Brian Keith Show, The Jeffersons, Hart to Hart, Love Boat, and Jake the Fatman.  He made television commercials, did charity work, and was president of the Honolulu Boy Choir.  Mossman, the son of Douglas and Mary Napahuelua Needham Mossman, died on May 18, 2021.

Muldrow, Hal L. Jr.

Major General Hal L. Muldrow Jr., a Choctaw Indian, commanded the 45th Infantry Division's artillery division in the Korean War from December 10, 1951 to May 22, 1952.

Murphy, Henry R. "Hank"

Hank Murphy was born and raised on the Sycuan Indian Reservation.  He left the reservation at the age of 17 to join the Marine Corps, but returned and now lives on the Sycuan Indian Reservation in El Cajon, California.  He founded the Sycuan Fire Department in 1974, served on the Sycuan Tribal government for more than 30 years, and is a Sycuan Kumeyaay Indian Elder.  As a key Sycuan Councilman, he helped establish the modern Sycuan Casino in the late 1980s.  In dozens of ways he and his wife Shirley Apple Murphy are extremely active in promoting a better life for Native Americans.

O'Jibway, Louis Austin

This Chippewa was a decorated World War II combat veteran and was serving in the Army Reserves during the Korean War.  From 1952 to 1959 he was periodically called to active duty.  In the Fall of 1951 O'Jibway left his job as a security guard and went to work for the United States government as a clandestine paramilitary officer at the CIA.  He died in August of 1965 in a helicopter crash in the Mekong River in Laos.

Parker, Clifford Gerard

Clifford Gerard Parker, 76, of Cherokee passed away December 1, 2012. Gerard is a member of the Eastern Band of Cherokee and formerly served as the Principal Chief, Vice Chief for six years and as a Tribal Council Member for the Painttown Community for sixteen years. Gerard served the tribe for more than twenty years and was a United State Army Veteran of the Korean War.

Gerard is survived by two sisters: Elba Crain and Christine Parker Buchanan, three brothers: Carroll, Don and Thomas Parker and children: Forrest Gerard Parker, Joshua Thomas Parker, James R. Welch, Brad Parker, Gerena Parker and Lori Lambert. Gerard also has twelve grandchildren and thirty-three nieces and nephews. Gerard was preceded in death by his parents Flora and Ben Parker and a daughter, Lisa Parker.

A private funeral service will be followed by a Memorial Celebration of Life, December 10, 2012 at the Joyce Dugan Cultural Arts Center, Cherokee Central School. The public is invited to attend the Celebration of Life which will begin at 1pm. Memorials may be made in honor of Gerard to the Cherokee Indian Hospital Foundation, Caller Box C-268, Cherokee, North Carolina 28719.

Secondine, Scott

Scott Secondine is a Shawnee tribal elder and gourd dancer who is one of six ceremonial elder men at the Shawnee Ceremonial Grounds. He has served on the tribal business council for many years and serves as secretary on the Board of Directors of the Claremore Indian Hospital. Secondine is a Korean War veteran.

Slavin, Roy

A Potawatomi, Slavin was born in St. Joseph, Missouri, in 1933, son of Roy and Irene Slavin.  He entered the army at age 17 in 1950.  After basic at Ft. Knox, Kentucky, he attended and finished electronics school.  He was awarded Q Clearance by the Atomic Energy Commission for a tour of duty at Eniwetok in the Marshall Islands.  He participated in Operation Greenhouse, a program for thermonuclear testing and the testing of the first hydrogen bomb.  He was eye witness to four thermonuclear explosions.  He was honorable discharged in March of 1953.  From 1966 to 2008 he worked for the Internal Revenue Service.  From 2008 to 2020 he was legislator for District 1 with the Citizen Potawatomi Nation.  He and his wife Julia were married in May of 1952 and they have three children, Rod, David, and Verna.

Soldier Wolf, Mark

A member of the Arapaho tribe, he joined the US Marine Corps and served in the Korean War.  His return to the Wind River Indian Reservation in 1952 was witnessed by his 102-year-old ancestor, Pretty Nose, who participated in the Battle of Little Bighorn.  Mark Soldier Wolf became a tribal elder.

Stevens, Ernie Sr.

Ernie Stevens Sr., Oneida, served numerous leadership positions including as executive director of the Los Angeles Indian Center, the Institute for Community Anti-Poverty Corporation, the Inter-Tribal Council of California, the Indian Action Project in Arizona, the American Indian Policy Review Commission and served on the L.A. Human Rights Commission, He was First Vice President of the National Congress of American Indians and the first Staff Director to the Senate Select Committee on Indian Affairs. He advocated for sovereignty, self-determination, self-governance and Native rights for nearly half a century. Serving with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Stevens was integral to changing the course of Indian Policy from an era of termination to tribal self-determination. A U.S. Marine Corps combat veteran, serving during the Korean War, he earned the Korean Unit citation and the Korean Service medal with three battle stars. He was awarded the Leon Grant Spirit of the Community Award by the Phoenix Indian Center. [Source: www.indianz.com]

Stevens, John

John Stevens was born August 8, 1933 at Passamaquoddy Indian Township Reservation in Maine.  He is a son of George and Maria Stevens and sibling of George, Mille, Madeline, Gene, Benjamin, Richard, Mildred, Rita and Phyllis.  He attended Princeton High School in Princeton, Maine and then enlisted in the US Marine Corps, serving three years during the Korean War.  After active duty he served six years with the Marine Corps Reserve.  After his military service he became chief of the Passamaquoddy Tribe, was first commissioner of Indian Affairs for the State of Maine, and was a tribal councilor.  He and his wife Carol are parents of eight children.

Stillday, Thomas "Tommy" Jr.

Born February 20, 1934 on a Ojibwe reservation, Tommy Stillday Jr. was the spiritual leader of the Red Lake Nation of Minnesota.  He served in the Army for 12 years and int he Korean War he was a combat engineer.  Stillday was an expert in the Ojibwe language, a championship grass dancer and a singer.  He used the Ojibwe language to develop codes for the military.  From 1997 to 1999 he was the Minnesota State Senate chaplain.  He died on October 14, 2008 and is buried in the Family Burial Grounds, Ponemah, Minnesota.  He was survived by his wife Mary Lou, three daughters, three sons, and numerous grandchildren.

Tanyan, Edwin

Tanyan was the son of Nina and Sally Tanyan.  He graduated from Butner High School near Cromwell, Oklahoma, and attended Oklahoma City University for two and a half years.  He served in World War II and received a Purple Heart after being wounded in that war.  During the Korean War he received three Bronze Stars with valor. From 1973 to 1977 and 1985-1989 he was Chief of the Seminole Nation.

Tessier, Robert W.

Born June 2, 1934, Lowell (Middlesex County), Massachusetts, he died October 11, 1990. Buried in Saint Josephs Cemetery, Chelmsford (Middlesex County), Massachusetts.  Robert Tessier was an actor primarily known for his powerful build, scowling face and shaven head.  He was an Algonquin Indian who broke into the acting profession in the late sixties. Typically cast as the tough guy/villain or Native American (which he was), he was a mainstay in movies and television in a career that spanned over twenty years. His first movie role was in the 1967 Tom Laughlin film, The Born Losers (the film which introduced the "Billy Jack" character) in which he played a biker named "Cueball". Ironically, Robert sported a full head of hair in this film (despite the name of his character) and this was also a nickname by which he was affectionately known by in real life by his friends. He was also a lifelong motorcyclist (who once performed motorcycle stunts in the circus) and formed the company "Stunts Unlimited" with Director Hal Needham. As a young man, Robert Tessier also received four Purple Hearts, two Bronze Stars, and a Silver Star for his military service during the Korean War. (He was a PFC and a paratrooper in the US Army's 45th ID.)  Although Robert Tessier starred in a vast number of movies and TV roles over his career, probably two of his best remembered movie roles were as the menacing, karate-wielding convict, 'Shokner' in the 1974 comedy-drama The Longest Yard with Burt Reynolds (whom he counted as one of his friends) and as 'Kevin' in the 1977 mystery-thriller, The Deep. He even ventured into the realm of TV commercials during his career, as Mr. Clean and in a series of commercials in the eighties for Midas Mufflers in Canada with other high-profile stars such as Lee Van Cleef, Jack Palance and Bo Hopkins. (Biography written by Todd Young - with additions by the KWE.)

Wanatee, Donald Wellington Sr.

Donald Wellington Wanatee Sr., 88, of Tama, died on Wednesday, April 21, 2021 at his home on the Meskwaki Settlement in rural Tama under the care of his family and UnityPoint Hospice-Grinnell. Traditional Graveside Services at the McIntosh Cemetery on the Meskwaki Settlement in rural Tama with Larry Lasley Sr. as speaker. Head Pallbearer-Wayne Pushetonequa and Pallbearers-Lucius Bear, Bryant Bear, Richard Wolf, Cordell Bear, Larnell Bear, Jarvis Bear, Trevor Mauskemo, and Adonis Lasley. Head Cook- Avis Bear. A Traditional Wake will be held Thursday evening at the Eagle Clan Ceremonial Building on the Meskwaki Settlement.

Donald was born on January 4, 1933, in Toledo, Iowa, the son of Frank David Wanatee Sr. and Jean Adeline (Morgan) Wanatee. He graduated from Tama High School, attended college at Central, Luther, Iowa State, and earned a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Iowa. Donald served his country in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War from 1951-1955 on the USS Chowanoc.

On May 15, 1970, he married Priscilla Lasley in LeGrand, Iowa. Donald was a social worker where he was a specialist for ICWA. He served on the Meskwaki Annual Pow Wow Association, the Meskwaki Tribal Council, office of the State Archaeologist Indian Advisory Council, Democratic Committees on the County, State, and National levels, and served as Executive Director of the Meskwaki Tribe. Donald was a Meskwaki man who lived a traditional Meskwaki life. In his spare time, he enjoyed reading, writing, talking and cartography. Donald loved spending time with his best friend and wife, Priscilla, his family and grandkids.

Survivors include his wife, Priscilla; siblings, Elizabeth Roberts, Marian Davenport, Darrel Wanatee, Frank Wanatee Jr., and Sunni Joy all of the Meskwaki Settlement; children, David Clark II, Dawn Suzanne, Heather, Donnielle, Donetta, Donica, Donnae, and Donald Jr. all of the Meskwaki Settlement; grandchildren, Christopher, Carolyn, Caitlin, Clarissa, Thane, Quinn, Megan, Jay Jr., Jaycob, Jaylynn, Loveena, Viviana, and Natalia; and many great-grandchildren. Preceding him in death were his parents, and siblings, David Clark, Ethelyn, and Frances.

[KWE Note: Source: Kruse~Phillips Funeral Home, Toledo, Iowa, and Findagrave website.]
 

Whitebird, Albert L. Sr.

Chief of the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa, Albert Whitebird attended grade school at Odanah and high school in Flandreau, South Dakota.  Born December 5, 1926, he enlisted in the Navy and was honorably discharged after four years of service.  When the Korean War broke out he again joined the military, this time in the US Army.  He received a Silver Star for heroic action in the Korean War.  He married Hazel Frances Bashina (1934-2019) in 1955 and they were the parents of eight children.  He was the great-great grandson of Chief Wa-bish-Ke-benais (Whitebird).  He died August 15, 1975, and is buried in Bad River Cemetery.


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Native American Females - Korean War Veterans

Arviso, Shirley M.

Shirley M. Arviso, a Navajo of the Bitter Water Clan, served in the Navy from 1953 through 1963. She was the Communications Officer in charge of a group of people who decrypted classified messages. [Source: Native American Heritage Programs website. Lenape (Delaware Indian) culture and contributions.]

Corbine, Buena Beatrice "Kitty" (later Province)

Born July 26, 1930, Corporal Corbine was a daughter of David and Nellie Nickence Corbine of Wisconsin.  She served in the US Army during the Korean War.  Kitty Province died January 30, 2001 in Cleveland, Ohio.  Her brother Pfc. Fredrick Allen "Fritz" Corbine was killed in action in the Korean War.  The Corbines were Chippewa Indians from Lac Courte Oreilles Reservation in Wisconsin.

Fender, Verna


Verna Fender

She joined the Navy during the Korean War and trained at Bainbridge, Maryland.  She was severely injured in basic, and was sent to a Navy hospital for rehab.  After recovery she returned to Bainbridge to complete her training and was then assigned to a base in San Diego.  For three years she worked in berthing and sectioning, supply and ordnance.  [Source: Native American Heritage Programs website. Lenape (Delaware Indian) culture and contributions.]

King, Anna Jacobs "Jake"

Of Muscogee (Creek) heritage, Anna was 24 years old when she joined the Army Nurse Corps.  She was accepted into the training program on January 1, 1950.  When the Korean War broke out she was sent to an evacuation hospital in Korea that received patients from the MASH units on the front lines.  She returned to the United States in July 1951 and continued in the Nurse Corps.  In the late 1970s she served in Panama.  Anna King was from Okmulgee, Oklahoma.

Lovelady, Marjorie Montgomery

Born in Springfield, Missouri, she joined the Army and had basic training at Ft. Lee, Virginia in 1950.  She received her wings during paratrooper training with the 82nd Airborne of the 3rd Army Unit 3420 at Ft. Bragg, North Carolina.  From 1950 to 1954 she worked with MASH units at Pusan, Seoul, Chosin, and other sites.  She was discharged on February 16, 1954.  Her Cherokee name was "Many Tears".

Peshlakai, Sarah Mae

A member of the Navajo tribe from Crystal, New Mexico, she enlisted in the Women's Army Corps in 1951 and served until 1957.  She trained as a medical specialist and was assigned to Yokohama Army Hospital in Japan where she helped to care for casualties from the Korean War front.  [Source: Native American Heritage Programs website. Lenape (Delaware Indian) culture and contributions.]

Reeves, Julia Helen Nashannay

Mrs. Reeves, a Potawatomie, received her nurse's training at Pennsylvania Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.  She enlisted in the army nurse's corps and then 2nd Lieutenant Nashannay was assigned to the 52nd Evacuation Hospital in New Caledonia during World War II.  She also was assigned to temporary duty on the hospital ship Solace.  In 1943 she was assigned to the 23rd Station Hospital.  After leaving the military she married, but returned to active duty during the Korean War, serving with the 804th Station Hospital in Battle Creek, Michigan.

Rexroat, Ola Mildred "Millie"

Born August 29, 1917 in Ogden, Kansas, she was a daughter of Ulysses Stewart Rexroat (a white man) and Clara Peck (an Oglala Lakota).  Millie was from the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.  She worked for the Bureau of Indian Affairs at a reservation in Gallup, New Mexico, and at the National War College in Washington, D.C.  She received a pilot's license and joined the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPS) in 1944.  Her job as the ONLY Native American WASP in World War II was to tow targets from her aircraft as target practice for aerial gunnery cadets.  The WASP program was short-lived, but Millie went on to serve in the military during the Korean War.  She was later an air traffic controller for the Federal Aviation Administration.  Millie, whose nickname in the WASPS was "Sexy Rexy", died June 28, 2017 at the age of 99 in Hot Springs, South Dakota.  She is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

Ross, Pearl

Pearl Ross, a member of the Arikara Tribe from the Fort Berthold Reservation, joined the Air Force in 1953, and trained as a medical specialist. Her first assignment was to the Air Force hospital in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Pearl was then assigned to Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska, where she worked in the 865th Medical Group at SAC HQ. During the Vietnam era, she saw many men who had been wounded in the combat theater. Pearl volunteered for overseas duty, but was turned down because the Air Force was hesitant to send women to Vietnam.  [Source: Native American Heritage Programs website. Lenape (Delaware Indian) culture and contributions.]

Schulz, Eldora Lydia "Jenny" Drumbeater

Born December 12, 1930 in Onigum, Minnesota, daughter of Thomas F. and Erma E. Beaulieu Drumbeater, she was a member of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe and a US Army veteran of the Korean War.  Jenny married Chesley Waldo Schulz and they had a daughter, Pepi Andrea Schulz.  Jenny died November 08, 2015 and is buried in Abundant Life Memorial Gardens, New Albany, Indiana.

Thayer, Beatrice "Bea" Coffey

A member of the Reno Sparks Indian Colony, Bea Coffey served in the Army during World War II and into the 1970s.  She was a member of the Army of Occupation in Germany and was in Germany when the Berlin Wall went up.


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Code Talkers Who Served in the Korean War

Thanks to some 800 members of the Navajo Nation, the United States could send radio messages with an unbreakable code.  That code was the native language of the Navajo.  Members of other tribes were also code talkers in World War II and the Korean War.  Some World War II Code Talkers served in Korea, but not necessarily as code talkers.

Bedoni, Sidney

Born March 10, 1923 in Navajo Mountain, Utah (Salt and Bitterwater Navajo clans), he enlisted in the Marine Corps and became a Navajo code talker during his service in World War II (October 20, 1942-January 18, 1946).  He reenlisted in the military, this time joining the Army to serve in the Korean War April 21, 1948 to October 23, 1952.  He died June 08, 2014.

Begay, Thomas H.

Known as a "windtalker", Begay served in the 5th Division, U.S. Marine Corps in World War II.  He was on Iwo Jima from February 17 to March 27, 1945.  This Navajo also served in the Korean War.  Thomas H. Begay was just 16 years old when he enlisted in the U.S. Armed Forces. During the Battle of Iwo Jima, Private First Class Begay transmitted hundreds of secret messages over the radio network in 1945. He then served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War as a parachutist, glider-man and in combat.

Hawthorne, Roy Sr.

He joined the Marine Corps at age 19 and during World War II he was a code talker.  Later he joined the Army and served in Korea, although not as a code talker.  He died in April of 2018 at the age of 92.  From Findagrave: "A Navajo Code Talker who used his native language to confound the Japanese in World War II has died. The Navajo Nation says Roy Hawthorne Sr. died Saturday April 21. He was 92. Hawthorne was the vice president of the Navajo Code Talkers Association. During World War II, he served with the 1st Marine Division in the Pacific Theatre. After World War II he joined Army, served in the Korean War and was promoted to corporal. “We acknowledge Navajo Code Talker Hawthorne’s service to our nation and to the United States of America, as well as the sacrifices of his family,” Vice President of Navajo Nation Jonathan Nez said. “One of the projects he worked hard for was to create a museum for the Navajo Code Talkers – we will continue working on this in his honor and in honor of all Navajo Code Talkers.” Hawthorne was 17 when he enlisted in the Marine Corps. After attending Camp Pendleton for several months for training, he was first shipped to Guadalcanal, which was then secured by the Americans. Later, he fought in the Battle of Okinawa. “When I was inducted into the Marine Corps and I raised my hand and swore allegiance to the United States of America, and I became a Marine, that’s when I became somebody. That’s when the whole world realized it wasn’t true that the Native Americans were non-achievers. That they were achievers,” Hawthorne said in a videotaped interview. “That’s what makes me very proud of the fact that we were chosen to do this specific task. And so we did.” Hawthorne was one of the most visible survivors of the group. He appeared at public events and served as vice president of a group representing the men. Code Talker Hawthorne was preceded in death by his wife, Jayne Hawthorne. He is survived by five children and 13 grandchildren. Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 26 at 5:00 p.m. at Rollie Mortuary in Tse Bonito, N.M., followed by a funeral service on Friday, April 27 beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Tsé Si áni Baptist Church in Lupton, Arizona"

Nez, Chester

The last of the 29 Navajos who developed a code that stumped the Japanese during World War II has died. Chester Nez, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, died Wednesday morning of kidney failure, said Judy Avila, who helped Nez write his memoirs. He was 93. Before hundreds of men from the Navajo Nation became Code Talkers, 29 Navajos were recruited to develop the code based on the then-unwritten Navajo language. Nez was in 10th grade when he enlisted, keeping his decision a secret from his family and lying about his age, as did many others. "It's one of the greatest parts of history that we used our own native language during World War II," Nez told The Associated Press in 2009. "We're very proud of it."

Of the 250 Navajos who showed up at Fort Defiance — then a U.S. Army base — 29 were selected to join the first all-Native American unit of Marines. They were inducted in May 1942. Nez became part of the 382nd Platoon. Using Navajo words for red soil, war chief, clan, braided hair, beads, ant and hummingbird, for example, they came up with a glossary of more than 200 terms that later was expanded and an alphabet. Nez has said he was concerned the code wouldn't work. At the time, few non-Navajos spoke the language. Even Navajos who did couldn't understand the code. It proved impenetrable. The Navajos trained in radio communications were walking copies of the code. Each message read aloud by a Code Talker was immediately destroyed. "The Japanese did everything in their power to break the code but they never did," Nez said in 2010.

After World War II, Nez volunteered to serve two more years during the Korean War. He retired in 1974 after a 25-year career as a painter at the Veterans Affairs hospital in Albuquerque. Nez was eager to tell his family about his role as a Code Talker, Avila said, but he couldn't. The mission wasn't declassified until 1968. The accolades came much later, and the Code Talkers now are widely celebrated. The original group received Congressional Gold Medals in 2001, and a movie based on the Code Talkers was released the following year. They have appeared on television and in parades and routinely are asked to speak to veterans groups and students. Nez threw the opening pitch at a 2004 Major League Baseball game and offered a blessing for the presidential campaign of John Kerry. In 2012, he received a bachelor's degree from the University of Kansas, where he abandoned his studies in fine arts after money from his GI Bill ran out.

Despite having both legs partially amputated due to diabetes and being confined to a wheelchair, Avila said Nez loved to travel and tell his story. "He always wanted to go, he loved meeting people," she said. "And with something like kidney failure, it comes really gradually. At the end, he was really tired." [Source: Findagrave] (Born: 1/23/1921.  Died 6/04/2014)

Pinto, Guy

Pinto was born October 13, 1923, son of Jay and Esther Pinto.  He was a Navajo Code Talker in the Marine Corps during World War II and the Korean War.  He died July 1, 2000 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and is buried in Greenlawn Cemetery, Farmington, New Mexico.

Red Elk, Roderick

Born January 23, 1923, he was a World War II Code Talker for the Army.  He also served in the Korean War.  His wife was Helen Mae Jackson Red Elk.  Roderick died September 25, 1997 and is buried in Deyo Mission Cemetery, Lawton, Oklahoma.

Shay, Charles Norman

An elder of Maine's Penobscot tribe, Shay served in the Army in World War II and Korea.  He earned a Bronze Star, Silver Star, and Legion of Honor award.

Soldier Wolf, Mark

He was an Arapaho tribal elder who served in the US Marine Corps during the Korean War.

Wanatee, Donald W. Sr.

Well-known for his advocacy of Native American Indians, Wanatee was a member of the Meskwaki tribe.  During the Korean War he served in the Navy aboard the USS Chowanoc, where he taught five fellow shipmates the Meskwaki language as code used in test shots.  [See Notables section for further details.]


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Alaskan Native American Korean War Fatalities

Demoski, Edward

Corporal Demoski was born in Alaska in 1931, son of Peter and Melinia Derendoff Demoski.  He was a Koyukon Athabascan Native American.  He was serving in A Company, 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 7th Infantry Division when he was killed in action at the Chosin Reservoir.  He was the brother of Justine Demoski and Mrs. Phillip Albert.

Harris, Paul

Sergeant Harris was born November 03, 1920, the son of William Kanosh Harris and Annie Eldermar (possibly Altermar) Harris.  He was a Native American Tlinget.  He was serving in C Company, 1st Battalion, 9th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division, when he was captured at the Chongchon River, Kujang area on November 26, 1950.  He died while prisoner on February 04, 1951.  There is a monument to him in the Evergreen Cemetery, Juneau, Alaska.

McLeod, Walter L.

Walter was born July 8, 1929 in Ketchikan, Alaska, son of Walter L. and Marian Bell McLeod.  His mother was a Native American, Haida Tribe.  Walter was serving in A Company, 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division, when he was killed in action at Changnyong, Korea.  He is buried in Bay View Cemetery, Ketchikan, Alaska.  He enlisted in the army on November 04, 1946 and was a World War II/Korean War veteran.


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Native Hawaiians Killed in the Korean War

[KWE Note: The following paragraph was written by Robert C. Schmitt and appeared in the Hawaiian History Journal, Volume 32 (1998):

"Personnel with a pre-service residence in Hawai'i who served in the Korean conflict were estimated at 25,000. Those killed in battle during that war numbered 403.  Those with non-mortal wounds, 923. Data for non-battle deaths by states are unavailable."

Fatality List [incomplete]

Aki, Clarence Halona

He was born January 24, 1924 in Pearl City, Hawaii, son of Samuel and Alice Aki of Lahauna, Maui, Hawaii.  He enlisted in the Army on January 30, 1946 and later served in the Enlisted Reserve Corps.  He was recalled to active duty in the Korean War.  He was serving in Headquarters Battery, 555th Field Artillery Battalion (105mm), 5th Regimental Combat Team when he was taken prisoner of war near Pongam-ni, South Korea, in the Pusan Perimeter on August 12, 1950.  He was survived by a son Thomas, who was 1 1/2 years old at the time his father went missing.  Thomas later served in the Army 1966 to 1970.  From 1967 to 1970 he served with the 1st Cavalry Division (Airborne) in Vietnam.  Clarence Aki was a Chinese-Hawaiian.

Akina, Frederick Keala

Private Akina was born May 12, 1931, a son of Enos Kealohanui Akina (1899-1995) and Mary Ah Hun Nawai Akina (Chong) (1903-1972).  His siblings were Samuel (1919-2010), Paul (1920-2009), Andew F. (1936-1953), and Vincent L. (1927-1981).  Frederick was killed in action near Kumsong, Korea, on June 17, 1952 while serving in L Company, 3rd Battalion, 40th Infantry Division.  He is buried in Makawao Veterans Cemetery, Makawao, Maui, Hawaii.  He was Hawaiian.

Apao, George

Born June 30, 1929, he was serving in the 9th Infantry Regiment of the 2nd Infantry Division when he was killed in action on March 01, 1951 in Korea.  He is buried in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, Honolulu.  He was the brother of David Apao (1925-1997).  He was Hawaiian.

Apo, August Lawrence

Born August 31, 1933, Private Apo was serving in D Company, 1st Battalion, 7th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division when he was killed in action in Korea on September 26, 1952.  He is buried in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.  He was Hawaiian.

Asau, Albert Harry

Private First Class Asau was born February 15, 1930.  He was serving in G Company, 2nd Battalion, 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division when he became missing in action on March 8, 1951.  He was later presumed dead.  There is a marker for him in East Hawaii Veterans Cemetery, Hilo, Hawaii.  He was Hawaiian.

Kaho'ohanohano, Pfc. Anthony

See Medal of Honor section.

Pilila'au, Herbert Kailieha

Born October 10, 1928, Pfc. Pilila'au was killed in action on Heartbreak Ridge.  [See Medal of Honor section of this page.]  He was a son of William Kaluhi Pililaau and Abigail K.K. Pililaau. His siblings were brothers William Jr., James, Antone, Albert, Edward, Moses, Melvin, and Robert, and sisters, Abigail Pilillaau Basso, Agnes Pililaau Kim, and Mercy Pililaau.  He was Hawaiian.

Torres, Roberto Rodrigues


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Remembering Our Native American Veterans

[KWE Note: Join us in honoring living and deceased Native American Korean War veterans who survived the Korean War by contacting Lynnita@thekwe.org.]

Adams, George Edwin

A veteran of the US Navy, Adams served from 1940 to 1964.  He participated in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.  Born in California but later living in Ohio, he was an American Indian (Cherokee and Blackfoot) and Alaskan Native.

Adams, Jerome

A Devil's Lake Sioux, Private First Class Adams served with the Army's 2nd Infantry Division.  He was evacuated after receiving gunshot wounds in the back, chest and arms, and also shrapnel wounds in his legs.

Anoatubby, Gene

A Chickasaw, he is a Korean War veteran and retired Assembly of God minister.

Apauty, Curtis

He was a fireman first class during the Korean War and a Comanche.

Atchavit, Robert A.

He was a sergeant in the Korean War and a Comanche.

Bad Cob, Sylvester

He was a World War II and Korean War veteran.

Baker,

Bell, Melvin Kealoha Sr.

Born in Hilo, Hawaii on January 25, 1920, Bell began his career in the military as a radioman for the Coast Guard.  Master Chief Bell's active military service was from 1938 to 1958.  He died September 09, 2018 in Westminster, California, and is buried in Riverside National Cemetery, Riverside, California.

Benedict, Charles "Chuck"

A member of the Turtle Clan, Benedict served in the Army in 1955-1956.  He received a medical discharge because he was deaf in one ear after artillery discharged near him.

Big Bear, George Louis

Born July 04, 1933 in White Earth, Minnesota, he died August 29, 1993 in Hennepin County, Minnesota.  He is buried in Saint Theodores Cemetery, Pine Point, Minnesota.  He was the son of Charles and Katherine Rock Big Bear.  He served in the Army in Korea.

Brave, Charles Curtis

Born August 14, 1932 in Pawhuska, this half Cherokee/half Osage was drafted into the army in 1953.  After basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, he was shipped to Korea with Headquarters Company, 3rd Battalion, 17th Infantry Regiment.  He was a driver of a tanker truck that brought food, ammunition and other supplies to the men fighting on Old Baldy.  He was discharged as a private first class in December of 1954.  After the war he worked with heavy equipment and then as a commercial union carpenter.  From 1990 to 2007 he did mission work in Brazil helping to build churches.

Brave Heart, Joseph P.

Born December 07, 1927 in Kyle, South Dakota, he was a private in the Marine Corps during the Korean War.  He died January 19, 1991 in Hot Springs, South Dakota. He is buried in Saint Stephen Catholic Cemetery, Kyle.

Brave Heart, Stephen Charles

He was born October 25, 1934 and served in the Navy during the Korean War.  He died March 15, 1992 and is buried in Saint Stephen Catholic Cemetery, Kyle.

Brewer, Ross

A member of the Ogala Sioux Tribe, Brewer served in a Ranger Company during the Korean War.  He was wounded there.

Bull Tail, John

Of Crow Indian heritage, John was wounded on Bloody Ridge in Korea while serving with the 45th Infantry Division.  He recovered and continued to serve in the Army.

Clark, Albert Jr.

Master Sergeant Clark served in the US Air Force from 1951 to 1972.  He was a member of the Comanche tribe.

Clark, William "Bud"

Born in Yakima, this Colville Tribal elder grew up in Kewa.  On April 12, 1945 he joined the Navy and served in World War II.  He then reenlisted, this time joining the Marine Corps from August 1, 1950 through the Korean War.  He was honorably discharged September 10, 1958.

Curry, Marvin "Joe"

A member of the Seneca Nation of Indians' Snipe Clan, he joined the US Navy and had two tours of duty in the Korean War and one tour of duty in the Vietnam War.

Damon, Gilbert

Funeral services for Gilbert Damon, 85, of Sawmill, Arizona, will be held today, April 21, at 10 a.m. at the St. Michaels LDS Church in St. Michaels, Arizona, with Lafe Damon officiating. Viewing will take place one hour prior to service at 9 a.m. Burial will follow at the Fort Defiance community cemetery. Gilbert was born June 20, 1930, in Fort Defiance, into the Tsi’naajinii (Black Streak Wood People), born for Tódich’ii’nii (Bitter Water Clan). He died April 15, 2016, in Payson, Arizona. Gilbert, a Korean War veteran, attended BIA Indian School in Fort Defiance, Albuquerque Indian School, and Chilocco Indian School in Chilocco, Oklahoma. He was employed with Navajo Forest Products Industry for 20-25 years. He enjoyed football, sports, running, hunting, and fishing. He was a silversmith and family man who loved his children. Gilbert is survived by his sons, Marcus J. Damon and Damian C. Damon; stepsons, Vince Shirley and Cyril Shirley; daughters, Crystal R. Damon and Theresa Damon; brothers, Thomas J. Damon and Lafe Damon; sister, Nora Damon-Halona; and five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Gilbert is preceded in death by his parents, John and Clara Damon; brother, Thomas J. Damon; and sister, Doris E. Damon-Gomez. Pallbearers will be Brandon Begaye, Aaron Begay, Ryan Grey, Matthew George, Damian Damon, and Victor Yazzie. Honorary pallbearers will be Cyril Shirley and Dean Bryant.

Dawes, Hubert Sr.

Of Crow Indian heritage, Dawes served in the US Navy before and during the Korean War.  He went on patrol and salvage missions off the Korean coast while serving aboard the USS Current (ARS-22) and USS Hitchiti (ATF-103).

Douglas, Glen

This Lakes-Okanogan served in World War II, Korea and Vietnam.  He was born near Penticton, British Columbia on February 1, 1927.  He joined the US Army in May of 1944 and served with B Company 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 1st Battalion, in Belgium during World War II.  He then served  in Korea, where he was injured by a grenade on July 17, 1953 in the Chorwon Valley.  He served in the Vietnam War from June 1959 to May 1960 as an intelligence analyst with a special forces team.

Emhoolah, John

This Kiowa/Arapaho enlisted in the National Guard in 1950.  His unit was activated as the 45th Infantry Division during the Korean War.  Emhoolah served as a forward observer for the 158th Field Artillery.

Freeman, Everett

A member of the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians, Freeman was born in 1931 in Battle City, California.  He died November 30, 2010, Corning, California  He joined the Navy in 1949.

Gardner, Billy G.

Retired Sergeant Major Gardner, a Choctaw, served in the Army for 25 years, with two tours of duty in Korea and one in Vietnam.

Garneaux, Moses

A Sioux Indian, Moses was captured during the Korean War but escaped.

George, Keller

An Oneida Indian (Wolf Clan representative), Keller served in the US Army in Korea and later joined and retired as a staff sergeant from the Air Force where he was a radar operator.  Air Force for 22 years.

Giago, Tim (Nanwica Kcji-Stands Up for Them)

Tim is a retired editor and publisher of Native Sun News and is a Korean War veteran.

Goldburn, Lee

He was a Korean War veteran.

Gorman, Clarence N.

A Navajo Korean War veteran from Chinle, Arizona

Green, George

Cherokee from Claremore, Oklahoma

Guitierez, Leo

He was an engineman 3rd class on the USS Grapple, ARS-7.  He was an engineman 3rd class.  He served in the Navy for four years during the Korean War.

Hackler, Martin Hughes

Member of the Potawatomi Nation and Korean War veteran.

Hembree, Ivan

A resident of Bunch, this Cherokee served in the Korean War.

Holy Rock, John

An Oglala Sioux, he was a World War II and Korean War veteran.

Jumping Elk, Everard David

Born March 19, 1934 in South Dakota, he was a sergeant in the Army during the Korean War.  He died January 10, 2001 in Roanoke County, Virginia and is buried in Bethel Cemetery, Eagle Rock, Virginia.  SGT Everard David Jumping Elk was the son of Thomas Jumping Elk and Blanche Isabelle Brings Pipe. He was from the Rosebud Sioux Tribe in South Dakota. He married Marie West on 11 Dec 1957 and Sandra Vaughn Keogh Steele on 1 May 1999.

Kellehan, Sidney

Cherokee

Keller, George

This Oneida Indian served 22 years in the Army and Air Force.

Killingsworth, D.C.

A Choctaw, Killingsworth was born March 18, 1928 in Whitesboro, Oklahoma.  He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and in the US Air Force during the Korean War.  He died May 12, 1997 in Talihina, Oklahoma, and is buried in Whitesboro Cemetery.

Kirk, Oliver Leo Sr.

Originally from Ganado, Arizona, Oliver Kirk was wounded in the Korean War.  He served in the US Army from March of 1953 to April 1955.  After military service he was a Navajo police officer for 34 years.  He and his wife Maggie Jane Kirk were parents of 13 children and they had 37 grandchildren.  Oliver Kirk Sr. died November 28, 2019.

Lane, Charles

Cherokee

Lazor, Howard Luther

A member of the Wolf Clan, he served in the Army during the Korean War.

Loudner, Donald E.

Loudner, a Hunkpati Sioux from South Dakota, was born March 18, 1932 on the reservation in South Dakota.  He volunteered for the Army on August 1, 1950 and took basic at Camp Carson, Colorado.  His two older brothers were sent to Korea, but Donald was not allowed to go there because he was the third son in the military.  He trained in New Jersey in communications and from 1950-1983 he was an instructor in the US Army in Alaska, the Lucien Islands, and Japan.  He was given a commission as a CWO and retired after 33 years.

Lowry, Leonard

Lieutenant Commander Lowry was born May 16, 1920 in Milford, California.  He served in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.  He was a decorated veteran, earning a Distinguished Service Cross, two Silver Stars, and the Legion of Merit.  He died August 17, 1999 and is buried in Susanville Cemetery, Susanville, California.

Marcellais, Clarence J.

Private First Class Marcellais, a Chippewa, landed at Pusan in July 1950 with the Army's 24th Infantry Division.  He was wounded by a mortar shell when the North Koreans tried to overrun an artillery battery near the Naktong River.  Less than a year later, while on patrol near Chipyong-ni, he was hit in the left leg by sniper fire, and a leg had to be amputated at the knee.

Martin, George

Ojibwe Elder George Martin was an Air Force Korean War veteran.  He was a Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe originally from the Whitefish Community of the reservation in Wisconsin.

Medicine Tail, William

Of Crow Indian heritage, William served as a gunner aboard the USS Bausell and Anderson during his tour of duty with the Navy in the Korean War.

Monroe, Harris Joseph

A PFC in the Army, this Native American was a guided missile crewman during the Korean War era.

Moses, Ray

A Tulalip, Ray was serving in the 14th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division with his brother Walter when Walter was killed in action on May 29, 1953.  He was a tribal storyteller and historian.

Muldrow, Hal

Muldrow, a Choctaw, served in the field artillery during World War II.  In Korea he was commander of the 45th Infantry Division's field artillery.  He was promoted to major general in 1952.  He was the commander of the 45th Infantry Division, Oklahoma National Guard, until he retired in 1960.

Oakley, Ellsworth R. Jr.

A member of the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe, Oakley served in the 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment in Korea.

Oxendine, Hughie

This Korean War and Vietnam War veteran was killed in action in Vietnam on December 25, 1967.  From Findagrave:  "Staff Sergeant Hughie Oxendine was a casualty of the Vietnam War. As a member of the Army, SSG Oxendine served our country until December 25th, 1967 in Khanh Hoa, South Vietnam. He was 35 years old and was married. It was reported that Hughie died from Malaria. His body was recovered. Hughie was born on August 3rd, 1932 in Lumberton, North Carolina. SSG Oxendine is on panel 32E, line 059 of the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. He served our country for 14 years. SSG Hughie Oxendine 35, who died Christmas Day in Vietnam, will be conducted at 3pm Sunday at Tabernacle Baptist Church. Burial will be held in Oxendine Family Cemetery with full Military Honors. He is survived by his wife Mrs Vivian Dale Oxendine of Route 4, Lumberton; one daughter, Norma Dale; three sons, Michael, Andrew and Stevie, all of the home. five brothers; Proctor, J.W., Hilbert Oxendine, all of Route 4, Lumberton, James H Oxendine of Charlotte. Hughie Oxendine was born in Robeson County, North Carolina son of the late John H and Effie J Oxendine. One of 9 kids that was raised in a rural farming area prior to enlisting in the US Army in 1951. His tours consisted of Ft Bliss TX, Ft Huachuca AZ, Schofield Barracks HI, Ft Chaffee AR, one tour Wildflicken Germany and four tours in Viet Nam.
He married his childhood sweetheart Vivian D Locklear and together they had 3 sons (Michael, Andy, Steven) and one daughter (Norma). A member of the Native American tribe "Lumbee" his co-workers frequently referred to him as "Chief" and/or "Country". His hobbies consisted of hunting, fishing, sports and spending time with family. He served as a Supply Specialist with Headquarters, Advisory Team 34, MACV Advisors, MAC-V. He served with Headquarters, Advisory Team 34, MACV Advisors, MAC-V. He was awarded The Army of Occupation Medal, The Vietnam Service Medal, The Republic of Vietnam Campaign Service Medal, The National Defense Service Medal(s) and The Good Conduct Medal(s)."

Pewewardy, Garner

He was a chief electrician's mate during the Korean War.  He is a Comanche.

Phillips, Theodore (Ted)

Theodore (Ted) Phillips (Turtle Clan) was a staff sergeant in the Army serving in World War II and the Korean War. Born in 1925, he enlisted in the Army while in his teens and remained in active service until 1945. He was called up again as a reservist to go to Korea. Ted was on the medic ambulance crew that went into the concentration camps. He helped take the survivors out of the camps, bringing them to medical facilities. Ted was also a survivor of the Battle of the Bulge. [Source: Oneidaindiannation.com]

Poolaw, Horace

This member of the Kiowa tribe was a photographer who documented the Kiowa community during World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam War.

Redeye, Nicholas T.

A member of the Cayuga tribe, Iroquois of New York State, Lieutenant Redeye served in the Navy from 1947 to 1958.  He served in World War II and the Korean War.

Rowland, Eugene

Born and raised on Pine Ridge Reservation, he served in the US Army during the Korean War.  On November 18, 1950 he became a prisoner of war and was kept at Camp Number Five.  He was set free on August 08, 1953.

Sawaquat, Lewis

Staff Sergeant Sawaquat, a native of Michigan, enlisted in the Army at age 18.  He served in the 387th Field Artillery Battalion in Korea with the II ROK Corps from 1953-56.  He was an Ottawa.

Scott, Bill

Born in 1933, he was the oldest son of Louis and Pearl Carter Scott.  A member of the Chickasaw Nation, he joined the Army National Guard at the age of 17 in January 1950.  He was assigned to Company G, 179th Infantry Regiment, 45th Infantry Division, and sailed to Korea in December 1951.

Shay, Charles Norman

A member of the Penobscot tribe in Maine, Shay served as a combat medic in World War II with the 1st Infantry Division.  He was taken prisoner of war.  During the Korean War he was a combat medic with the 7th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division.

Shaw, Andy

A member of the Spirit Lake Sioux Tribe, he joined the Army in 1948.  He was stationed in Japan with the 21st Infantry Regiment, 3rd Battalion, 24th Infantry Division when the Korean War broke out.  His company was shipped to Korea, and he was taken prisoner of war there.  He survived the Tiger Death March.

Soldier Wolf, Mark

Later an Arapaho tribal elder, he served in the Marine Corps during the Korean War.

Springer, Jack F. Sr.

Jack F. Springer, Sr., passed away on Saturday, October 15, 2016. Born on February 28, 1925, the son of Frank and Lillian (Cleveland) Springer, he was a proud Native American, as well as a World War II and Korean War Veteran.

Jack was an underwater demolition frogman attached to the 1st Marine Division deployed in the South Pacific. He was a proud and lifelong member of the Marine Corps League. He received the Purple Heart, Presidential Unit Citation, 4 Battle Star Asiatic Pacific, World War II Victory Medal, Good Conduct Award, Navy Expeditionary Medal, Navy Commendation medal for Valor and Combat Device, N.Y.S. Conspicuous Service Cross, Korean Service Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Navy and Marine Corp Medal.

Jack was known around the area for his many accomplishments, his career included being Sheriff’s Deputy as well as a Sergeant in the Hudson Falls Police Department, where he served as security for Ronald Reagan, while he was in our area. As a steel worker, he helped build the Twin Bridges and was foreman during the building of G. Roswell Earl Towers.

Jack was an avid outdoorsman and a licensed Adirondack hunting guide, for over 50 years. Jack was a Mason for 62 years. He was a Masonic Member first with the Sandy Hill Lodge, then the Glens Falls Lodge and later the Herschel-Argyle Lodge 508 Free and Accepted Masons, totally 62 years. Additionally, he was a Shriner for 50 years. He was also a member of the American Legion Post 574 for 68 years.

Jack was one of the original founders of the Kingsbury Fire Department. His family members were the original owners of Springer Sanitation. Jack and his brother were also proprietors of Central Moving and Storage.

He was predeceased by his parents, his two sisters: Mildred Barlow and her husband, Loren and Marion Benard and her husband Laurent, brothers: Frank and Fred Springer, his beloved horses, Meagan and Babe, his best friend and dog, Buddy.

He is buried in Moss Street Cemetery, Kingsbury, New York. Full military honors were provided by American Legion Post 574 along with Patriot Guard.

[Source: Findagrave]
 

Stewart, David J.

Of Crow Indian heritage, David served in the 955th Field Artillery Battalion in the Army during the Korean War.

Stewart, SFC William

This Crow saw action with the 45th Infantry Division.  He was wounded during the battle for Christmas Hill.

Tafoya, George

Private First Class Tafoya was born April 23, 1934 in Milliken, Colorado.  He was serving as a member of I Company, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment when he was declared missing in action on July 19, 1953.

Tahhahwah, Edward Sr.

Corporal Tahhahwah, a Comanche, was a driver for the port commander in France during the Korean War.  He served in the Army.

Tahsequah, Meech

Lieutenant Colonel Tahsequah was a Comanche born October 27, 1918.  He was the son of George Tahsequah and Pansy SapCut Craig and the foster son of Charles and Vera Komah of Walters, Oklahoma.  His wife was Evelyn L. Tahsequah of Lawton, Oklahoma.

"Lieutenant Colonel Tahsequah was a decorated veteran of World War II. In Korea, he was a member of the 3rd Maintenance Squadron, U.S. Air Force. On December 6, 1950, he a passenger a B- 26B Invader bomber assigned to the 8th Bomber Squadron, 3rd Bomber Group. The aircraft ran out of fuel and crashed 30 miles north of Susa. The crew bailed out. He was listed as Missing in Action and was presumed dead on February 28, 1954. Native American Comanche. Born Lawton, Oklahoma, lived in Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas.

DPAA: Late in the afternoon on December 6, 1950, a B-26 Invader (tail number 44-34222) departed Iwakuni Air Base, Japan, with a crew of three. The briefed mission was a night intruder operation north of Seoul, Korea. Due to a solid cloud cover over most of Korea, they were forced to drop their payload based on an estimated time of arrival and began searching for targets of opportunity. Unable to see any terrain features, the pilot decided to return to base by way of Seoul and Teagu. Inclement weather interfered with navigation and radio equipment throughout the flight, making it difficult to stay on course. When the fuel was almost exhausted, the pilot was able to contact two ground stations in Japan, which provided a course to Japan. Unfortunately, before the Invader could reach land, the engines cut out and it became necessary to bail out. The next day, the navigator was rescued. Rescuers were unable to locate the pilot or the gunner, and both men remain unaccounted-for." [Source: Korean War Project]

"On 14 July 1941, Tahsequah became the first Comanche to enlist into the US Army Air Forces as an Air Cadet. He trained as a pilot at Tarrant Field Airdrome, Fort Worth, TX, with the Army Air Forces Flying Training Command for B-24 Liberator and B-26 Marauder Bombers. After his training he was assigned to the 376th Bombardment Group, known as the “Liberandos” and based in Egypt. They focused on destroying enemy airfield and port facilities along Axis supply lines between Italy and North Africa. Long-range raids were then made against oil refineries, marshaling yards and ordinance factories in Hungary, Austria, Czechoslovakia and Yugoslavia.

On 1 August 1943, the 376th Bombardment Group participated in one of the most daring raids in the war; Operation Tidal Wave, a raid against Ploiesti, Romania’s nine oil refineries that were furnishing petroleum-based fuel to the Axis powers. The bombing run was made at treetop level. With 53 aircraft and 660 aircrew lost, it was the worst loss ever suffered by the USAAF on a single mission, and its date was later referred to as "Black Sunday." Five Medals of Honor and numerous Distinguished Service Crosses were awarded to crew members participating in Operation Tidal Wave. Tahsequah was the recipient of one of the DFCs after successfully returning his B-24D Liberator bomber and crew to its base in Libya.

Following the liberation of North Africa in late 1943, the 376th moved to San Pancrazio, Italy, where they participated in an accelerated campaign against Axis targets in southern Europe and the Balkans. Sorties extended as far a Vienna, Austria, and Regenburg, Germany. The 376th destroyed 220 enemy aircraft during aerial combat, lost 169 aircraft and suffered 1,179 causalities. Lt Col Tahsequah flew 31 combat missions totaling over 300 combat hours. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross three times and also received three Purple Hearts for wounds he sustained.

In Korea, Lieutenant Colonel Tahsequah was a member of the 3rd Maintenance Squadron, U.S. Air Force. On 6 December 1950, he was a passenger in a B-26B Invader bomber assigned to the 8th Bomber Squadron, 3rd Bomber Group. The aircraft ran out of fuel and crashed 30 miles north of Susa, Korea. The crew bailed out. The Navigator, Capt Jack Lewis, who bailed out said, “Tahsequah and the other crewmember, SSgt Claude McFee also bailed out before crashing.” It was thought at one time that Lt Col Tahsequah was a prisoner of war as his name was mentioned by North Korean propaganda. Capt Lewis was rescued on 21 May 1951. Tahsequah was listed as Missing in Action and was presumed dead on 28 February 1954.

His remains were not recovered. His name is inscribed on the Courts of the Missing at the Honolulu Memorial." [Source: Military Hall of Honor website]

Tall Bear, Alvin

Alvin Tall Bear, age 86 passed away on March 30, 2014 at the Oklahoma City Veteran's Medical Center. A wake service is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 3rd at Swearingen Funeral Home Chapel in Konawa, Oklahoma, and a Funeral Mass is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 4th at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Konawa. Fr. Adrian Vorderlandwehr, O.S.B. will officiate. Burial will follow at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. Pallbearers are Robert R. Tall Bear, II, Jimmy Jordan, Jim Moon, Mark Noteware, Paulo Gonzales, and Jamie Cervantes. Honorary Pallbearers are Sylvester Alley and Danny Echohawk.

Alvin was born on March 3, 1928 in Pawnee, Oklahoma to Floyd Tall Bear and Lillian (Kihega) Tall Bear. He attended Chilocco Indian School and attended A&M College. He married Johnnie Mae Rhodd on February 14, 1952 in Bentonville, Arkansas. Alvin was the owner and operator of Recon Construction and was a member of the American Legion and the VFW in Shawnee. He was the decedent of Chief White Cloud, and he was the last living hereditary chief of the Iowa Nation. He was also active in many committees with the tribe throughout the years.

Alvin entered the U.S. Marine Corps in 1948 and was a veteran of the Korean War. As Staff Sergeant, he was a high ranking drill instructor and a recipient of the nations fourth highest service medal, The Silver Star. The award was presented to him for his action during the First Marine Division's great push toward Chunchon, in the spring of 1951. Disregarding his own wounds, Sgt. Tall Bear took command of his platoon after its leader was wounded and led the platoon on to take several objectives before he himself fell from the loss of blood. As an amateur boxer, he represented San Diego in the Golden Gloves Championship Matches in Los Angeles during his first tour of duty.

He is survived by his wife of sixty-two years, Johnnie Mae Tall Bear of the home; four sons, Alvin Tall Bear, Jr. of St. Louis, Oklahoma, Mike and Loretta Tall Bear of St. Louis, Oklahoma, John Tall Bear of Lexinton, Oklahoma, and Robert R. Tall Bear also of St. Louis; three sisters, Marlene Echohawk of Albuquergue, New Mexico, Lou Lerma of El Reno, Oklahoma and Carolyn Levi of El Reno; three grandchildren, Estee Nicole Cervantes, Jennifer Tall Bear, and Robert R. Tall Bear, II; and seven great grandchildren, Alyssa Cervantes, Letecia Cervantes, Aidan Cervantes, Orion Cervantes, Kayson Bear Shirey, Isaiah Tall Bear, and Cody Tall Bear.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Lillian Tall Bear; one brother, DeForest Tall Bear; and one grandchild, Misty Love Tall Bear and a new-born brother.

Tall Bear, Freddie

Born August 30, 1931, he died December 08, 1956.  He is buried in Clinton Indian Cemetery, Custer County, Oklahoma.  He served in the 179th Infantry in Korea.  He was survived by his widow, sons Wauchope and Fredrick Jr., three brothers and a sister.

Tall Bear, William Delos "Bill" Sr.

William Delos “Bill” Tall Bear, Sr., of El Reno, Oklahoma, was born on January 27, 1935 to Christine Tall Bear in Hammon, Oklahoma and passed away September 1, 2020 in Yukon, Oklahoma at the age of 85 years, 7 months and 4 days.

Bill was raised in Hammon, Oklahoma. He attended Concho Boarding School until enlisting in the United States Marine Corps in February 1952. In the Marines, he served in the Korean War. He was stationed in Japan, California, and Hawaii during his military career before he was honorably discharged in November 1959. He moved back to Oklahoma, and married Minnie “Lucille” Drunkard. They had one daughter, Ramona, before moving to San Francisco, California. While in California, they welcomed a son, Bill, Jr., before moving back to Oklahoma where they made their home at Deer Creek. They went on to have 3 more children: Christopher, LaDonna, and Ralph. Lucille passed away in 1984. Bill later married Evelyn Chimburas in 1996 where they resided in Whiterocks, Utah until 2003. They bought a home in El Reno, Oklahoma.

Bill was a master welder and was a founding member of Oklahoma Indian Nation Gourd Clan and Buddy Bond Color Guard. He enjoyed going to powwows, gourd dancing, and going to the casino. He was an excellent beadworker and created many one-of-a-kind pieces. Bill would say his biggest accomplishment, though, was his large family. He enjoyed having get-togethers for every occasion and holiday. He was a family-centered man who will be greatly missed by both friends and family.

Bill is survived by his 5 children and their spouses: Ramona of Colorado Springs, Colorado, Bill, Jr. and Kathleen of Thomas, Oklahoma, Chris and Donna of Norman, Oklahoma, LaDonna of Weatherford, Oklahoma, Ralph and Tisha of Deer Creek, Oklahoma; fifteen grandchildren: Rachael, Janet, Robert, Daniel, Cody, Teisha, Cera, Kaya, Chris, Pavenah, Minnie, Kitty, Walk Up, WinterSky, and Trevor. He was a great-grandfather to nineteen children.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Christine, two sisters, Lesa and Florence, and a brother, Fredrick, grandparents Walk Up and Florence (Black Wolf) Tall Bear, great-grandfather Black Wolf, and wives Minnie “Lucille” and Evelyn.

Taylor, Selbert

Cherokee

Turns Back, Frederick

Of Crow Indian heritage, Frederick served with the 24th Signal Company of the 40th Infantry Division in Korea.

Wahkinney, Raymond "Rusty"

Sergeant Wahkinney was born August 10, 1932.  During the Korean War he was a member of the Oklahoma National Guard.  He served three years in Korea with the 158th Field Artilleery Battalion, 45th Infantry Division.  He died February 9, 2007, and is buried in Little Washita Indian Cemetery, Comanche County, Oklahoma.

Wallis, Hosea

Cherokee

Wheelock, Glen

A member of the Turtle Clan, he served in the Army during the Korean War.

White Buffalo, Norman Sr.

A Sioux Indian, Norman was captured during the Korean War but escaped.

Wilber, Edwin J.

This Menominee Indian from Shawano, Wisconsin received two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star in the Korean War.  He is the subject of an educational work entitled, "Hidden Discrimination: Edwin Wilber and Stereotypes of the Native American Soldier" authored by Nicholas J. Pelant.  Edwin enlisted in the Army on July 26, 1950.  During the Korean War he served in King Company, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division.

Wilson, Burnham John

Born July 24, 1937, Burnham died December 14, 2015 in Cass Lake, Minnesota.  He is buried in Prince of Peace Cemetery, Cass Lake, Minnesota.  During the Korean War he served in the Navy.  He was also a Vietnam War veteran.

Wind, Cecil Dale

Ojibwe.  He was born July 15, 1928 in Minnesota, son of Levi Wind Sr. and Mattie Show Wind (1905-1932).  Cecil Dale Wind died June 15, 1989 in Beltrami County, Minnesota and is buried in Old Agency Onigum Cemetery, Onigum, Minnesota.  He served in the Army during the Korean War.  [See also George Francis Wind Sr.]

Wind, George Francis Sr.

Born July 12, 1930 in Cass County, Minnesota, he was the son of Levi Wind Sr. (1893-1967) and Alice G. Gwinn Wind (1903-1992).  He served in the Army during the Korean War.  His siblings and half-siblings were Cecil Dale Wind, Eugene Levi Wind (1935-1966), Alvin J. Wind (1938-1993), Theodore W. Wind (1940-1992), Sharon L. Wind (1946-1998), Levi Wind Jr. (1914-1969), Theresa Wind Johnston (1917-2004), Caroline "Kay" Wind-Cloud, Mary White, Myrtle Munnell, Chuck Gwinn, and Anna Johnson.

Winder, William

A member of the Wolf Clan, he served in the Army during the Korean War.


 

 
 
 

 

Demoski, Edward


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