Code Talkers Recognition Congressional Medals Program: Pueblo of Acoma Tribe (New Mexico)
- 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 a Pueblo of Acoma code talker scouting the area during his tour of duty in the South Pacific.
Reverse
The reverse design features the Pueblo of Acoma flag. Clans depicted in the flag are the antelope (at the top center); the road runner, turkey, parrot, oak and mustard seed (to the left); and an eagle, sun, bear, pumpkin, and red and yellow corn (to the right). In the center (bottom to top) are water, Abraham Lincoln’s Cane of Authority presented to the tribe in 1864, Pueblo of Acoma Sky City Village and wind.
Obverse Inscriptions
- PUEBLO OF ACOMA
- CODE TALKERS
Reverse Inscriptions
- WORLD WAR II
- ACT OF CONGRESS 2008
Mint and Mint Mark
Artist Information
Obverse- Designer: Donna Weaver, Artistic Infusion Program
- Sculptor: Renata Gordon, Medallic Artist
- Designer: Donna Weaver, Artistic Infusion Program