Native American Awarded Medal of Honor
Posted by Guest. Filed in Information, Life Lessons, News |
A 95-year-old Native American veteran who wore sacred tribal symbols with his uniform during World War II was among 16 people to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom earlier this week.
Dr. Joseph Medicine Crow, a Crow Indian chief and tribal historian, received the highest civilian award in the United States in a ceremony at the White House. The award recognizes individuals for their contributions to the security of the U.S., world peace, or cultural endeavors.
Medicine Crow, the oldest Crow Indian, earned the distinction of war chief for his valiant service in the Army during World War II. “Wearing war paint beneath his uniform and a sacred feather beneath his helmet, Joseph Medicine Crow completed the four battlefield deeds that made him the last Crow war chief,” President Obama noted when he presented the award.
Joe served bravely and with distinguished honor in France during World War 2, and he directed the surrender of German soldiers toward the end of the war. Joe’s wartime recollections were recorded in the Ken Burns’ documentary series, “The War.”
Obama called Medicine Crow a “warrior and living legend,” noting that his grandfather was a scout who served for Gen. George Custer during the Battle of Little Bighorn. Last year, he was awarded the Bronze Star by the U.S. Army for his war service. At the same time, the government of France made him a knight of the French Legion of Honor.
To read more about the award ceremony, click here and here.
Prayer: Lord, we thank you for the dedicated service of heroes like Joe Medicine Crow. For their bravery, for their wisdom, for their dedication and love of country. Grant these heroes your blessing and protection as they serve. Amen
Tags: Army, Crow Indian, Joe Medicine Crow, Medal of Honor, Native American, President Obama
