Code Talkers Recognition Congressional Medals Program: Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Tribe (Minnesota)
- Year of Issue: 2008
- Authorizing Legislation: Public Law 110-420
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Background
The Program
The Code Talkers Recognition Act of 2008 requires the Secretary of the Treasury to strike Congressional Medals in recognition of the dedication and valor of Native American code talkers to the U.S. Armed Services during World War I and World War II. “Code talkers” refers to those Native Americans who used their tribal languages as a means of secret communication during wartime.
Under the Act, unique gold medals are struck for each Native American tribe that had a member who served as a code talker. Silver duplicate medals are presented to the specific code talkers, their next of kin, or other personal representatives. In addition, bronze duplicates are available for sale to the public.
The Navajo Nation was awarded Congressional Gold Medals in 2001 under Public Law 106-554.
Characteristics
Obverse
The obverse design depicts a World War II code talker transcribing and receiving information. A beading pattern is at the bottom rim of the design and foliage is incorporated at the top rim, representing the Fond du Lac Tribe code talkers who served in the South Pacific.
Reverse
The reverse design features the Fond du Lac Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Tribe Seal.
Obverse Inscriptions
- LAKE SUPERIOR BAND OF FOND DU LAC CHIPPEWA
- CODE TALKERS
Reverse Inscriptions
- ACT OF CONGRESS 2008
- WORLD WAR II
- FOND DU LAC
- BAPASHKOMINITIGONG OGITCHIDAAG (“Fond du Lac soldiers” or “Fond du Lac warriors.”)
Mint and Mint Mark
Artist Information
Obverse- Designer: Donna Weaver, Artistic Infusion Program
- Sculptor: Charles L. Vickers
- Designer: Donna Weaver, Artistic Infusion Program