Code Talkers Recognition Congressional Medals Program: Hopi Tribe (Arizona)
- 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 features Hopi code talkers communicating on a field phone and using binoculars to search for the enemy. The B-24 Liberator in the background represents the Hopi code talkers’ service in the 90th and 380th Bombardment Groups.
Reverse
The reverse design features a variation of the Hopi Tribe flag, which depicts a circle with dots, mountains and stalks of corn on both sides of the mountains. The flag’s symbols represent the Hopi way of life.
Obverse Inscriptions
- HOPI CODE TALKERS
- U.S. ARMY
Reverse Inscriptions
- HOPI CODE TALKERS
- U.S. ARMY
Mint and Mint Mark
Artist Information
Reverse- Sculptor: Renata Gordon, Medallic Artist