Navajo Codes Talkers were the stars of the Veteran’s Day in New York City! In a sea of military blue, the humble Navajo Code Talkers stood out in red at Gracie Mansion. New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg once again hosted the annual Veterans Day Breakfast on Sunday, this time with gratitude to veterans and the military for rescuing our dear city during Storm Sandy.
The event featured other luminaries including US Secretary of Defense Ashton B. Carter and wife Stephanie and three mayors—Ed Koch, this year’s parade grand marshal, David Dinkins and Bloomberg. Many Gold Star Wives—widows who lost spouses who died while on active duty, were among special honored guests.
The Navajo Code Talkers were young Navajo men who transmitted secret communications on the battlefields of WW ll. “At a time when America’s best known cryptographers were falling short, these modest sheepherders and farmers were able to fashion the most ingenious and successful codes in military history. They drew upon their proud warrior tradition to brave the dense jungles of Guadalcanal and the exposed beachheads of Iwo Jima,” according to their website.
The Navajo Code Talkers’ trip from Flagstaff, Arizona to NYC’s Veterans Day 2012 ceremonies was made possible by the War Museum. The living legends attended a full weekend of appearances including the Marines Corps Ball and the breakfast with Mayor Bloomberg, They were also featured on a parade float and honored at other local ceremonies.
Although the holiday was officially marked on Monday, November 12, 2012, a full weekend of ceremonies were held throughout New York City and outer boroughs, despite the region’s struggle with recovery from tragic Hurricane Sandy.
