The Navajo Code Talkers

For those who were not aware of the Code Talkers, this book was an excellent first source once the information was declassified in 1968. As far as accuracy, I can assure the readers that the material is very accurate, as my father was one of the major sources quoted in the book. He was with the 4th Signal Company, Headquarter Bn, 4th Marine Division, and made all four campaigns that the 4th Marine Division was engaged in. As a squad leader, he worked with quite a few of the Navajo Code Talkers. He was always impressed with their dedication to the job, even when under heavy enemy fire. Please note that the movie "Windtalkers" was very inaccurate in regard to the Code Talkers and the battle of Saipan (the Code Talkers were never guarded as in the movie, with orders that they be shot if captured - however, they often had Anglo's with them since they were often suspected as being Japanese). Hopefully the Eastwood movie coming out soon, and based on "Flags of our Fathers", will be more accurate. Enjoy the book!

If the release of the Code Talker-based movie was raised your interest in this subject, look no further than The Navajo Code Talkers by Doris A. Paul. This book was first published in 1973 and was the first, and is still the best, source of information on this subject. Learn the story behind the story. This is a must-read book. Do not accept imitations (or imitators)!

To say that the United States mistreated the Native Americans has already been established. This book shows that regardless of any mistreatment, the Navajo code talkers fulfilled their duties with honor and without question. This book shows the reader clearly how the Navajo language was used to help the United States defeat Japan during WWII. The recollections of their service to the United States are honest as well as very descriptive of the Navajo Indian's experience in WWII. This book is a must read for anyone who is interested in this often neglected chapter of WWII.

I read this several years ago, being shocked that at age 40 something, I had never heard of the part the Navajos had played in the war. This book will appeal to anyone interested in languages, secret codes, World War II, or obscure history. The photographs and illustrations are a wonderful enhancement. Great subject, great book...I've mentioned it to many people over the years, most of them as unaware (and some disbelieving)as I was of these Navajo heroes.