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Let's Talk About It

Honoring the Native Warriors History Forgot

By Yvette Tello · May 28, 2026

Read in the original edition on Issuu

Sergeant Billy Walks About exemplifies the extraordinary bravery of Native American warriors who have fought valiantly in every major American conflict. Their courage and sacrifice often remain unrecognized compared to their non-Native counterparts.These warriors gave their lives for a land that was taken from them, navigating a complex loyalty to a nation that oppressed them. Despite their significant contributions, their stories are frequently overlooked in history.

Many assimilated into mainstream culture, sacrificing parts of their identity while their service and sacrifice remained marginalized.It is vital that we share the stories of Native heroes like Sergeant Walks About. By doing so, we honor their experiences, educate future generations, and promote a deeper understanding of American history.Let’s advocate for recognition and tell these important stories. It is time to rethink how we celebrate all who have served, regardless of background.

What stories or aspects of Native American military service resonate with you? Let’s talk about it…

Let's talk about it: what our community said

Printed replies from readers on our page-2 conversation.

  • “Why is he not simply referred to as one of America’s most decorated warriors? A great man is a great man, regardless of nationality or ethnicity.”

    Ted Darden

  • “Hmmm, ... sounds like Billy Badass to me! A serious person.”

    Ron Abney

  • “I’ll bet he didn’t expect the military to adapt to him either.”

    Tony Gore

  • “A true American who did all he could to help the people. To me, the American Indians are the true Americans of this USA. Others come here and are Americans, but Native Americans are the ones who lived here before us, before anyone came here. Thank you, sir. You are a brave soul. May our God bless you.”

    Barbara Howard

  • “Why isn’t the Cherokee Tribe of Oklahoma pushing for the Congressional Medal with 5 Silver Stars and 10 Bronze Stars, being one of the most highly decorated soldiers aside from Audie Murphy? At least the American Medal of Freedom. Does he have a statue and plaque in the Oklahoma State Capitol? The nation needs to step up and make his life acknowledged.”

    Rhonda Ann Shephard

  • “Glen Douglas was nominated for the Medal of Honor five times. He received the Silver Star, two Bronze Stars, and eight Purple Hearts. He was an Okanagan warrior and, in his older years, a statesman.”

    Lesley Suzanne-Douglas

  • “When did he have time to sleep?”

    Amelia Hertler

  • “My respect to this soldier.”

    Rogue Regent

  • “What a hero looks like.”

    Michelle Forcier

  • “If his mother’s name was Carolyn, then I knew this young man when he was a small boy. He was very kind, funny, and a pleasure to know. But regardless, this hero is one to look up to. Mvto for your service.”

    Laurie Joslin

  • “I appreciate knowing his story and many more stories of the true history of Indigenous Mexicans and Indigenous people who are originally from these lands.”

    Jaime Rodriguez

  • “God knows him and all those who have not been honored due to racism and evil thinkers and doers. God will judge each and every one.”

    Mike C. Segovia Jr.

  • “Thank you for sharing this important story.”

    Tia Jeri

  • “Thank you for your bravery and your sacrifice to our country. Rest in peace.”

    Virginia Harvey

  • “A true patriot and hero. Thank you for your honorable service and leadership. God bless you, and God bless America.”

    Albert Albie Fraijo Ambriz Jr.

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