Many Indians die too young

This issue of Native Sun News will be printed on or near Memorial Day. That is a day of mixed emotion for many Native people. On one hand, we are proud to honor the Veterans who have sacrificed for country, Tribe and family. Across the land, tribal communities will hold celebrations in honor of our fallen warriors and those who succumbed to natural causes after valiant military service. On this occasion, it is good to once again acknowledge that Native Americans have the highest military enlistment rate of any ethic group in America.

This year, I was particularly touched to learn that the students from Pretty Eagle Catholic Academy, Crow Reservation will decorate approximately 5,000 graves on and near the Crow Reservation, including non-Indians. That will be a great lesson for those students. As they place a flag on each military grave, I hope they stop to read the name and give a moment’s thanks for that veteran’s sacrifice and patriotism.

http://www.nsweekly.com/news/2016-06-01/Voices_of_the_People/Many_Indians_die_too_young.html