"Since time immemorial, Native Americans have honored their fallen warriors in much the same way. Numerous tales of memorable battles, shared victories, and in some cases, disappointing defeats were told and passed along from generation to generation. Many of these are still a part of Native oral tradition today and are being perpetuated by their people. Names of great Native American warriors such as Sitting Bull, Crazy Horse and Geronimo are still being remembered.

The tradition continues to this day, and is perhaps even more poignant with the recent passing of Travis Yaiva, the last remaining Hopi Code Talker who, fortunately, was recognized for his contributions to our country. Many others were not as fortunate. Many gave the ultimate sacrifice for their families, people and country. Today, many others battle bravely in Iraq and Afghanistan in the war on terrorism. Much about war has changed over the past 50 or so years, but the accolades paid to those who gave their lives in battle remain the same. Years - perhaps even centuries from now - the life of Travis Yaiva, among many others, will still be remembered by his people.

It goes without saying that death is ultimately a part of life. There is, however, an almost "egalitarian" worldview of death that occurs during war; that perhaps a person's death somehow has more meaning or purpose when they are killed in battle rather than simply dying at the end of their expected lifespan. There is a time-honored sense of patriotic duty and pride - particularly among Native Americans - that comes from fighting in a war. Nobody knows that better than a Native veteran.

These esteemed individuals walk among us every single day - our fathers, brothers, husbands, uncles ... today, we even have mothers, sisters, wives and aunts who are military veterans. Yet nobody pays too much attention to them until days like Memorial Day or Veterans Day. They seem almost invisible, yet they live and interact with us in our everyday lives in so many different ways. They are quite proud of who they are and what they've given to this country, but all too often, they go unrecognized."

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Wells Mahkee Jr.: Do your part to honor our Native warriors (The Navajo Hopi-Observer 5/25)