Existing comment:
World War II
American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians served in overwhelming numbers after the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. Forty-four thousand of a total Native American population of 350,000 saw active duty, including nearly 800 women. For this service they earned at least 71 Air Medals, 34 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 51 Silver Stars, 47 Bronze Stars, and five Medals of Honor.
More than 2,000 Native Hawaiians served in the U.S. Army, and over 6,000 Alaska Natives served in the Alaska Territorial Guard. |