2017 NATIONAL AMERICAN INDIAN HERITAGE MONTH
Date Signed: 11/7/2017 | MARADMINS Number: 616/17
MARADMINS : 616/17
R 071957Z NOV 17
MARADMIN 616/17
MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC MRA MP//
SUBJ/2017 NATIONAL AMERICAN INDIAN HERITAGE MONTH//
POC/MARC SHEPPARD/GS12/UNIT: MPE/-/TEL: (703)784-9371/TEL: DSN 278-9371/TEL: COMM (703)784-9371//
GENTEXT/REMARKS/1.  November is National Native American and Alaska Native Heritage Month.  This year’s theme is “Standing Together.”  We recognize and celebrate Native Americans heritage, history, art and traditions during National American Indian Heritage Month.
2.  National American Indian Heritage Month first began with the establishment of American Indian Day by the Governor of New York in May 1916.  Later, several additional states enacted celebrations on the fourth Friday in September.  The celebration gained official national recognition when President George H. W. Bush approved a joint resolution designating November 1990 as "National American Indian Heritage Month."  Similar proclamations under different names, including "Native American Heritage Month" and "National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month," have been issued each year since 1994.
3.  From the Revolutionary War to present-day missions around the world, American Indians and Alaska Natives have contributed and continue to contribute greatly to national defense.  These patriotic Americans have served our military forces and participated in every major conflict since the time General George Washington enlisted their help in America’s fight for independence.  During World War II, Native American military personnel encoded messages in native languages to prevent enemy code-breakers from deciphering sensitive information.  Combining their unique talents with their resilient spirit, American Indians and Alaska Natives have valiantly served our military throughout our Nation’s history.
4.  During the National American Indian Heritage Month, commanders are encouraged to take time to increase awareness and celebrate the dedicated service and contributions of Native Americans to our country and Corps.  Commanders are further encouraged to conduct programs and promote participation in observance events in the local community.
5.  This DVIDS (Defense Video Imagery Distribution System) link provides a video presentation in celebration of the National American Indian Heritage Month: 
  For further information regarding diversity and national observances see the related links section of www.manpower.usmc.mil/marinediversity.
6.  Release authorized by Brigadier General S. F. Benedict, Director, Manpower Plans and Policy Division.//