Tristan Begines, a member of the Lewis and Clark Young Marines in Ridgefield, joined youth from across the country in Window Rock, Arizona, on Aug. 14 to honor World War II Navajo Code Talkers.
The Code Talkers used their native language to transmit top-secret communications during World War II’s Pacific campaign, creating the only code unbroken by the Japanese during the war. Each year, the Navajo Nation celebrates their contributions on Aug. 14, a press release by the Young Marines stated.
Begines, of Vancouver, took part in ceremonies, community service projects and other activities honoring the Code Talkers. Each year, the Young Marines travel to Arizona to meet the remaining survivors and listen to their stories.
“The Navajo Code Talkers played a vital role in securing victory during World War II, creating an unbreakable code based on their Native language that baffled enemy forces and saved countless American lives,” Col. William Davis, USMC (Ret.), national executive director and CEO of the Young Marines, said in the release.
The Lewis and Clark Young Marines, based in Ridgefield, are part of a national youth leadership program that promotes teamwork, discipline and a drug-free lifestyle. To learn more, visit shorturl.at/6n8v1.
