Code Talkers Recognition Congressional Medals Program: Pueblo of Laguna 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 World War II code talker. The inscription, “K’AWAIKA CODE TALKERS” translates to Laguna.
Reverse
The reverse design features the Pueblo of Laguna Tribe seal. Inscriptions “TSINA HANU” and “Y’AAK’A WAASCH’I” translate to Big Turkey and Little Corn, respectively.
Obverse Inscriptions
- K’AWAIKA CODE TALKERS
- PUEBLO of LAGUNA
Reverse Inscriptions
- 43RD BOMBARDMENT GROUP
- WORLD WAR II
- ACT OF CONGRESS 2008
- PUEBLO OF LAGUNA
- TSINA HANU
- Y’AAK’A WAASCH’I
Mint and Mint Mark
Artist Information
Obverse- Sculptor: Renata Gordon, Medallic Artist
- Designer: Donna Weaver, Artistic Infusion Program
- Designer: Donna Weaver, Artistic Infusion Program