Code Talkers Recognition Congressional Medals Program: Rosebud Sioux Tribe (South Dakota)
- 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 and Sicangu Lakota warrior in profile. The code talker wears his dog tags parallel to the traditional bone-and-bead choker of the Rosebud Sioux warrior who also wears a feather in his hair. Eagle feathers are also included in the lower border of the design.
Reverse
The reverse design depicts the Rosebud Sioux Nation seal.
Obverse Inscriptions
- SICANGU LAKOTA
- CODE TALKERS
Reverse Inscriptions
- ROSEBUD SIOUX TRIBE
- WWII
- ACT OF CONGRESS 2008
Mint and Mint Mark
Artist Information
Obverse- Sculptor: Phebe Hemphill, Medallic Artist
- Designer: Justin Kunz, Artistic Infusion Program