R 021922Z NOV 12

ALCOAST 470/12
COMDTNOTE 5350
SUBJ: National Native American Heritage Month
1.  November marks the celebration of National Native American
Heritage Month.  This month provides an opportunity to recognize the
service and significant contributions of American Indians and Alaska
Natives to our Nation.  This years theme is Serving our People,
Serving our Nation: Native Visions for Future Generations.
2. American Indians and Alaska Natives embody a legacy of service to
the Nation, and play a vital role in preserving and protecting
American liberties.  Official records of Native Americans serving in
the Coast Guard date back to 1877 at the Life-Saving Service Station
at Neah Bay, Washington, situated on the Makah Reservation.  This
unit was the first in federal service composed primarily of Native
Americans.  Native Americans served with distinction during both
World Wars and into the twenty-first century.  Wampanoag Carlton West
of Nantucket served in World War I and World War II.  In 1943, James
Leftwhich of the Chickasaw Nation enlisted in the Coast Guard at the
age of 14, and retired as an officer in 1964.  Petty Officer Joseph
R. Toahty, a member of the Pawnee Nation, enlisted in the Coast Guard
in 1941 and became the first Native American to participate in an
offensive operation with United States Naval forces in World War II.
Today, the Coast Guard workforce includes more than 1000 military
personnel and civilian employees who trace their heritage to North
Americas indigenous people.
3. The Coast Guard continues to partner with tribal leaders to
protect subsistence hunting and fishing, and enhance relationships
between the federal sector and Alaska Natives and American Indians.
4. Throughout National Native American Heritage Month, commands are
encouraged to recognize and celebrate the accomplishments of American
Indians and Alaska Natives in service to the Coast Guard and our
Nation.
5. ADM Bob Papp, Commandant, sends.
6. Internet release authorized.