Code Talker: Memoir by an Original Navajo Code Talker of WWII

Chester Nez, one of the original Navajo code talkers of World War II, has written the first and only memoir of his experiences. Contrary to popular belief, Chester Nez was not his birth name; it was the English name he was given in kindergarten. Furthermore, during his time in boarding school at Fort Defiance, he was punished for speaking his native language, as the teachers sought to strip him of his cultural heritage and traditions.

Despite the discrimination he faced, Chester's unwavering spirit and his deep-rooted warrior mentality, instilled in him by his upbringing on a New Mexico reservation, compelled him to answer the call to defend his country after the attack on Pearl Harbor. The Navajo have long been known for their bravery and resilience, and Chester's physical and mental fortitude were crucial attributes that enabled him to excel as a marine.

During the war, the Japanese had managed to crack every code used by the United States military. However, when the Marines turned to their Navajo recruits to develop and implement a secret military language, they created the only unbroken code in modern warfare. This code played a vital role in assuring victory for the United States over Japan in the South Pacific.

This memoir not only provides a firsthand account of Chester Nez's experiences as a Navajo code talker but also includes the actual Navajo code and rare photographs that offer a unique glimpse into this fascinating chapter of history. The book serves as a testament to the courage, resilience, and unwavering patriotism of the Navajo people, who played a crucial role in the outcome of the war.

Through his personal narrative, Chester Nez's memoir sheds light on the challenges and hardships faced by the Navajo code talkers, who were forced to navigate the complexities of their cultural identity and the demands of military service. Despite the discrimination and adversity they encountered, these brave individuals rose to the occasion, using their linguistic and cultural expertise to create a secret code that proved to be an invaluable asset in the war effort.

The inclusion of the actual Navajo code and rare photographs in the memoir adds a unique and compelling dimension to the storytelling, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the ingenious and innovative strategies employed by the Navajo code talkers. This memoir stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of these unsung heroes, whose contributions have been largely overlooked in the annals of history until now.

product information: