A new Texas Historical Marker honoring the first Native American code talkers was unveiled April 1 at Veterans Memorial Park in Fort Worth. The marker recognizes Choctaw soldiers who used the Choctaw language to secure Allied victories in World War I.
Over 50 people attended the ceremony near Camp Bowie Boulevard, including leaders from the Choctaw Nation, city and military officials, and descendants of the 19 World War I Choctaw soldiers.
Choctaw Code Talkers from the 36th Infantry Division trained at Camp Bowie before deploying to France, where they used the Choctaw language to send coded messages. During the war, German forces intercepted U.S. communications, risking troop movements and supplies.
After overhearing Choctaw soldiers speaking, U.S. command realized their language could serve as a secure code. Messages sent in Choctaw provided the Allies with an advantage and contributed to key victories.
According to the new marker, words like “Tanampo Chito” (big gun) and “Tanamposhi Hussatpalhki” (little gun shoot fast) were part of the code developed./i
The Choctaw Code Talkers laid the foundation for future Native American code talker programs, including those used in World War II.
Their innovation demonstrated the strategic value of Indigenous language, turning cultural heritage into a powerful military asset.
“Their ingenuity and bravery remind us of the power of cultural heritage and the importance of preserving Indigenous languages,” said Brent Kemp, commander of the 56th Infantry Brigade Combat Team.
Chief Gary Batton said the Choctaw Code Talkers’ impact went beyond battles. They helped preserve the Choctaw language despite suppression and forced assimilation.
“It was at a time when our people could not even vote; we were not even recognized, if you will, as citizens,” Batton stated at the ceremony. “That’s not a bad story; that’s a story about sacrifice and being unified and doing the greater good. That’s what our people set the path for us. That’s what we’re trying to do today.”
The marker was installed through a partnership with the city of Fort Worth, the Texas Historical Commission, and the Choctaw Nation.
According to city officials, this addition expands the park’s mission to honor military service and the cultural contributions that have shaped the nation.
Nuchi Nashoba, a descendant of a Choctaw code talker and president of the Choctaw Code Talkers Association, hopes the site educates visitors about sacrifice, innovation and the Choctaw people’s resilience.
Nashoba said they hope to continue expanding the preservation and recognition of the Code Talkers through monuments like this one.
Learn more about the legacy of the Choctaw Code Talkers and explore their story at Biskinik.com.
