On Friday, leaders of the Navajo Nation held a prayer ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park outside the tribal headquarters in Window Rock, Ariz. on Friday to offer prayers and support for all active-duty service members currently serving or deployed to combat zones.
The prayer service was organized by the Navajo Nation Veterans Administration (NNVA). Speaker Curley welcomed leaders in attendance, including Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren, Vice President Richelle Montoya, Council Delegate Dr. Andy Nez, NNVA Executive Director Bobbie Ann Baldwin, and commanders and vice commanders of the Navajo Veteran Agency.
Curley acknowledged the families of those serving in the armed forces and offered words of encouragement to relatives of deployed service members.
“This morning, we’re here to offer prayers for our children who are in the armed forces,” said Speaker Curley. “My heart goes out to all the mothers, fathers, siblings and grandparents of actively deployed service members. My strength stands beside you.”
She emphasized that times of uncertainty call for unity among the Navajo people and urged communities to stand together in support of those serving.
“It’s not about politics or any disputes,” she said. “At times like this we shouldn’t be arguing about money, chapter boundaries, or grazing rights because we are all one people.”
Curley also encouraged the community to remain respectful and unified while honoring veterans and praying for the safety of active-duty troops.
“At times like this we rely on faith, we rely on our Holy People, we rely on God,” Speaker Curley said. “It’s faith that brings our people together. This morning let’s pray for our families, our troops, our veterans.”
During the service, Navajo Nation Veteran Liaison Tim Johnson offered the prayer, Navajo Nation Blue Star Mother and Lukachukai Chapter President Paula Begay delivered words of encouragement, and Vietnam combat veteran Jerry Arthur provided closing remarks.
“When our military personnel are among us, it brings greater protection and contentment, and may this morning’s prayer strengthen it throughout our relatives in uniform,” said Council Delegate Dr. Andy Nez. “As we offered our prayers, we remember their families and communities as well. As a Nation, we stand with them, honoring their courage and asking for continued safety.”
The 25th Navajo Nation Council expressed deep appreciation for all veterans and active-duty service members, recognizing their continued leadership, sacrifice, and service to the Navajo Nation and the United States.
