P.O. Box 908 Lawton, OK 73502-0908
Code Talker Descendants Meet
A large turn out of Comanche World War I and World War II descendents met with Chairman Wallace Coffey, Code Talker Liaison Lanny Asepermy, CIVA Commander George Red Elk and the Director of Special Projects Donna Wahnee on February 12 at the Code Talker Meeting Room in the Nation’s Education building. 16 of the 18 Code Talkers had representatives present including family members from Norton, Lawrence and Baldwin City, Kan. Business Committee members Mike Mahsetky, Gary Tahmahkera, Harry Mithlo and Tribal Administrator Will Owens were also present. A total of 58 descendents attended the meeting. After Chairman Coffey welcomed everyone a blessing was provided by CBC member Tahmahkera and a meal was served. A Code Talker video was shown, courtesy of Museum Executive Director Phyllis Wahahrockah-Tasi, the Code Talker song was sung by Van Codynah and Willie Nelson and handouts were provided by CIVA Commander Red Elk. Chairman Coffey told of the heroic deeds of the Code Talkers stating it has been close to 95 years since the WWI Code Talkers and 70 years for the WWII Code Talkers to be recognized for their accomplishments on the battle fields of Europe. He compared their bravery to that of the Comanche Pukutsi of old. It was brought to light that Chairman Coffey made six trips to Washington DC to lobby for the Congressional Gold Medal which was authorized for presentation by Public Law 110-420 signed on October 15, 2008 by President George W. Bush. Asepermy explained how Gold Medal process has reached the point of a Congressional presentation ceremony this fall. In the 1990’s former Fort Sill Museum Director, Towana Spivey, answered two inquires from Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton regarding recommendations for awarding the Gold Medal to the Comanche and Choctaw Code Talkers. After the Navajo Code Talkers were presented a Gold Medal in December, 2000 tribal member Ben Tahmahkera enlisted the aid of Congresswoman Kay Granger asking why the Comanche Code Talkers were not given the same recognition as the Navajos especially since they used their Comanche language in both World War I and II. In addition, the World War II Code Talkers were trained 18 months before Navajos and fought in five European campaigns. Granger introduced the Code Talker Recognition Act of 2002 – it failed due to Continued on page 4
Lawton, OK
March 2013
Hotel Expansion Design Begins Tribal Artist Up For The Challenge
PR SRT STD US POSTAGE
PAID
PERMIT NO 49 STIGLER, OK 74462
VOLUME 13 EDITION 3
Comanche Nation 29th Annual Easter Egg Hunt
The 29th Annual Easter Egg Hunt will be 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., March 23 at the Comanche Complex. The egg hunt will have nine different divisions and each division will have First, Second and Third place prizes. Categories are as follows: Walking - 3 years sponsored by Injury Prevention; 4 - 6 years, sponsored by Prescription Assistance; 7 - 10 years sponsored ICW, 11- 13 years CRYS; 14- 18 years sponsored by WIA; 19 - 39 Photo by Paula Karty/News Staff years sponsored by Diabetes Comanche Artist attend meeting for new hotel: L to R. Calvert Nevaquaya; Chairman Wallace Coffey; Tim Ne- Awareness; 40 -55 years sponvaquaya; Nacona Burgess; Quanah Burgess; Rance Hood; Tim Saupitty, Eddie Mahseet and Buddy Little Cheif. sored by Tourism Center; 56 After the approval of The hotel will consist of showcase of Comanche histroy 65 years sponsored by Enrollthe New Hotel Expansion, the 85 rooms and five suites, which to create a “Family Friendly” ment; Handicapped/Elders 66+ sponsored by PIO. planning process has begun. will be named after Comanche atmosphere. All prizes will be handThe ground breaking A meeting was held on Chiefs. Each of the five suites’ ed out after each hunt is conFebruary 15 at the Comanche artwork will be consistant with for the new hotel is scheduled cluded. Nation Red River Casino to the chief it is named after. All for March 15. Bring your own lawn discuss the artwork to be fea- 85 rooms will have two 30x40 Artist asked to take tured in the new Hotel Expan- paintings from the artist. on the challenge are: Rance chairs, ice chest and baskets. This is a “Drug Free” sion. The hotel will also dis- Hood, Tim and Calvert Ne- Family event, so come have A very elite group of play sculptures as well as Co- vaquaya, Tim Saupitty, Buddy Comanche artist was on hand. manche artifacts. There will Little Chief, Quanah and Na- fun. For more information The meeting was held to get also be an area where artwork cona Burgess and Eddie Mah- contact the Comanche Nation the artist familiar with the new from the artist may be pur- seet. Prevention and Recovery Cenhotel, for which they will pro- chased. ter at (580) 357-3449. vide the artwork. The artwork will be a In case of inclement UINOKT meeting held at the Comanche Nation weather, the Easter Egg Hunt will be rescheduled for April 6. Headquarters
The Comanche Nation hosted the United Indian Nations in Oklahoma, Kansas, and Texas (UINOKT) meeting on February 8th at 10:00 a.m. in Code Talker Hall at the Comanche Nation Headquarters. The meeting was called to order by Sac & Fox Principal Chief, George Thurman, and a warm welcome was extended to all who were present, by Comanche Nation Chairman Wallace Coffey. Tribal Health Issues were first on the Agenda to be discussed by the tribal representatives. A total of six (6) Regional Listening Sessions were offered in six communities from February 1- March 1. The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) Collaborative Partners assisted in arranging the listening sessions. The Collaborative Partners include the following: Cherokee Nation, Choctaw Nation, Citizen Potawatomi Nation, Comanche Nation, IHS-OKC Area Office, Oklahoma Health Care Authority, OKC Area Inter-Tribal Health Board, Pawnee Nation, and Wyandotte Nation
Story and Photos by Stacey Heminokeky/News Staff
Topics discussed included access to preventive health care, reducing chronic diseases and childhood obesity, and improving disparities in health and health care among Oklahoma’s American Indians. In addition the state health agencies, Oklahoma Department of Health and the Oklahoma Health Care Authority will be seeking input into the development of an Oklahoma Plan to reduce the number of uninsured and the costs of health care. The (UINOKT) Constitution and By-Laws were drafted by a committee of volunteers, Chairman Wallace Coffey, Nicole Dunlap, Crowe E Dunlevy, and Margo (Gray) Protor. The Constitution and By-Laws draft was circulated to the attendees for review of modifications prior to the January 19 (UINOKT) meeting and were approved by the (UINOKT) tribal representatives on February 8th. Updates on the (UINOKT) Logo, Annual Convention, and Bank Accounts were also on the agenda
for discussion. RES Roundtable Representation was discussed for the March 11-14 Round Table Discussion Meeting to be held in Oklahoma City. The meeting is between the tribes and state of Oklahoma representatives to address the concerns of the Tobacco Compact Gaming, cross deputations agreements, tribal tags, and land-into-trust issues. The tribal representatives Expressed the importance of attending the meeting to request the State of Oklahoma representatives to adhere to the rules of Indian Law while they attempt to interfere in Tribal issues. The tribal representatives agreed to hold the next (UINOKT) meeting on March 18th. Following the adjournment of the meeting, gift bags which contained Pendleton coffee cups were extended to all tribal representatives and attendees by the Comanche Nation.
Comanche Spring 2 p.m., April 20, Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Canyon, Texas. Doors open: 2 p.m. Gourd dancing: 3-5 p.m. Comanche Exhibition begins: 6 p.m. One day “first-ofits-kind” event full of Comanche culture held in the Palo Duro Canyon State Park, South of Amarillo, Texas, known as part of the Comancheria. Art Market and showcasing our Comanche dance culture. Open to the Public. Admission: $22/ ticket For futher information contact: Benny Tahmahkera, (580) 5833350, e-mail: benny. tahmahkera-1@ou.edu, or Marla Nauni, (580) 6780087, e-mail: marlia_32@ hotmail.com.
Watch the Comanche Business Committee Meetings live by going to www.comanchenation.com and click on the U Stream link icon.
March 2013 THE COMANCHE NATION NEWS The award-winning Comanche Nation News, the official communication of the Comanche Nation, is available at no charge upon request. The deadline to submit information for the March edition is noon March 15. Donations to help cover the cost of printing and mailing are welcome. Contact: The Comanche Nation News P.O. Box 908 Lawton, Okla. 73502-0908 Telephone: (580) 492-3386 Fax: (580) 492-3709 Email: comanche_news@yahoo.com •
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TCNN Staff Jolene Schonchin, Editor, Reporter, Photographer-Email: tcnneditor@ yahoo.com-Telephone Number-(580)492-3382 Paula Karty, Assis. Editor, Reporter, Photographer- Email: kartynews@ yahoo.com Telephone Number-(580)492-3383 Stacey Heminokeky, Reporter/ Photographer- email: heminokekynews@yahoo.com Candace Todd, Administrative Assistant-Telephone Number (580)492-3386 News items of interest to the local and American Indian community are welcome. Photographs will be copied and will become the property of TCNN. To return original photographs, send a self-addressed stamped envelope. Do not send faxed photographs or newspaper copies of photographs. The Milestones Page (Birthdays, Anniversaries, Engagements,Memorial Pictures, Weddings, Births) are by submission only. The Passings are submitted by the Comanche Nation Funeral Home or by tribal members on a funeral home letterhead. The Milestones Page is for tribal members only. TCNN publishes all services conducted by The Comanche Nation Funeral Home without discretion. Obituaries are written for tribal members only. TCNN will print a Comanche organization’s annual event flyer once free of charge as a courtesy to our tribal organizations. The guidelines for flyer submission are: Pow-wow flyers have to be from an established Comanche organization. There has to be contact person and number on the organization’s annual flyer. We reserve the right to edit all material. Letters or articles that contain libelous information, slander, or personal attacks will not be printed. Letters to the Editor must be signed with a legible name. The letters to the editor or articles contained in the The Comanche Nation News does not reflect the views or opinions of the PIO staff.
Comanche Nation Officials Chairman Wallace Coffey Vice Chairman Mike Mack Mahsetky Secretary/Treasurer Gary Tahmahkera Committeeman No. 1 Charles Wells Committeeman No. 2 Sonya Nevaquaya Committeeman No. 3 Harry Mithlo Committeeman No. 4 Jack Codopony Sr. Tribal Administrator Will Owens To contact officials: Comanche Nation P.O. Box 908 Lawton, Okla. 73502 Toll Free: (877) 492-4988 Physical Address 584 Bingo Rd. Lawton, OK 73505
Member of the Native American Journalist Association since 2001
TCNN Winner of Seven 2012 NAJA Media Awards Member of the Society of Professional Journalists since 2010
Mission of the Comanche Nation The mission of the Comanche Nation is to promote and preserve the culture, history and traditions of the Comanche people, and to further promote and encourage pursuits relevant to an efficient governing body, a viable economic base and measures designated to enhance social and cultural activities which will reflect our heritage and assure the continued development and success of the Nation and its members.
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Government
The Comanche Nation News
March 2013
Wahnee Clark reads a letter concerning the cemetary to the NAGPRA Board at the hearing.
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The Comanche Nation News
The Comanche Nation NAGPRA Board listens to the testimonies of several tribal members Jan. 29 about the Ft. Sill Indian Agency Cemetary. From left: Eleanor McDaniel, Sandra Karty, Morgan Tosee, Anthony Monoessy, and Verna Cable.
Thomas Narcomey shows pictures of his late father who was dedicated to the recognition of the cemetary .
Hearing Called to Record Testimonies of the Ft. Sill Indian Agency Cemetary Story and Photos by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff
A room of silent listeners were present Jan. 29 as tribal members took the floor to talk about their family members who are buried at Ft. Sill’s Indian Agency Cemetary, but are unable to visit or decorate their graves. The newly appointed Native American Graves Repatriation Act Board members listened intently, as the stories were being told. “I want to be able to go visit the cemetary within my lifetime,” said Sam Cook, who has family members Popepiky and Nokeke buried at the site. The cemetary, located on Ft. Sill, has been unusable to tribal members, who want to visit their loved ones. The site was covered with cement and sodding so Ft. Sill could use the area for an airport runway. Now deserted, the cemetary sits neglected and untouchable. “The cemetary for Ft. Sill’s miliatary animals gets better maintenance than our own,” said Comanche Nation Chairman, Wallace Coffey. The cemetary has been in a debate of allowing it to be
registed as a historical site. Wahnee Clark, who has dedicated nearly a decade to researching and communicating with Ft. Sill representatives, created a map of the burial sites of many of the deceased tribal members. He explained his response from Ft. Sill has not always been a positive one. He talked about the incident where he was nearly arrested for taking topsoil from the site. Another incident he told the Ft. Sill representatives he would pay for a Ground Penetrating Radar to look for anomalies at the cemetary, hoping to locate more grave sites. The representative of Ft. Sill told him they would have to find a contractor to do it and it would cost Clark nearly a million dollars, although Clark found he could rent one for much cheaper. Former Ft. Sill Museum Curator, Twanna Spivey, took the floor to give a history of the cemetary, and to talk about the resistance of Ft. Sill allowing tribal members to visit the cemetary. Thomas Narcomey also took the floor to talk about the
relationship the cemetary has with his family. He said there is a paper trail that indicates the cemetary was to be put on the National Registry of Historic Sites. He also talked about several families who were victims of the Small Pox epidemic that struck the Comanche Nation. “Whole families were buried at the cemetary because of the small pox that was given to them through government issued blankets,” said Narcomey. A video recording of the testimonies was done to ensure the stories would be documented and preserved for future reference. “If I have to go all the way to the Pentagon, I will,” said Coffey. “Something needs to be done.” A meeting of the NAGPRA Board was held Feb. 28 to talk about the hearing. TCNN tried several times to contact a representative from Ft. Sill to respond to the status of the cemetary without success.
The map of the Indian Agency Cemetary, presented by Wahnee Clark, shows where some of the tribal members are buried.
VOTE Daniel Robles for
Courtesy Photo
REPRESENTATION AT CELEBRATION. Several princesses, both tribal and from different organizations, were present Feb. 24 to dance with Comanche Nation Chairman, Wallace Coffey, during his birthday celebration at the Comanche Nation Complex’s Watchetaker Hall. From left; Chelsea Sapcut-CIVA Princess, unknown princess, Kimberly De Jesus -Quanah Parker Princess, Maggie Birch-Comanche War Scout Princess, Posey Liles-Comanche Nation Princess, Chairman Wallace Coffey, Jonetta Silverhorn-Comanche Nation Jr. Princess, Amber Quis Quis- Oklahoma Gourd Dance Princess, Madison Emhoolah- Lawton High School Native American Club Princess, Chelsea Fodder-Walter Service Club Princess, and Amiya Tonips DeVine- Walter Service Club Little Princess. The powwow brought several singers and dancers from many tribal nations across Indian Country. This is Coffey’s historic fifth term as the Chairman of the Comanche Nation. He is a direct decedent of Comanche Chief, Ten Bears.
Tribal Administrator Paid Advertisement
March 2013 continued from page 1
lack of sponsorship from the House of Representatives. She reintroduced the Code Talker Recognition Act of 2005 – it too failed due to lack of sponsorship from the Senate. On December 13, 2007 Congressman David Boren introduced the Code Talker Recognition Act of 2008. After an intense lobbying campaign, by the Comanches and Choctaws, the required 2/3 majority sponsorship was gained and on September 25, 2008 the bill passed the House – on September 30, 2008 the bill passed the Senate both by unanimous consent. As mentioned earlier it was signed into law on October 15, 2008.
The Act of 2008 identified 13 tribes as having Code Talkers. The Act may not have passed as sponsorship of 67 Senators was required. In late August, 2008 after 3 days of lobbying, Chairman Coffey returned home only to be told the Act was 4 Senators shy of gaining the 2/3 majority required to get the Act on the floor, for final approval, by the US Senate. Chairman Coffey returned to Washington immediately and during a luncheon, set up by US Senator Jim Inhofe, was able to secure sponsorship of 10 additional US Senators surpassing the required 67 sponsors needed. For his actions we owe Chairman Cof-
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fey our upmost gratitude for his support during the entire lobbying process. The Congressional presentation ceremony will be “in the fall” according to the US Treasury Department. The Comanches will be presented one Gold Medal, the immediate next of kin will be presented a duplicate Silver Medal and all other direct descendents will be presented with a duplicate Bronze Medal. A formal Awards Ceremony Banquet will be sponsored by the Comanche Indian Veterans Association and an open Honor Dance, sponsored by the Nation, will take place after the ceremony in Washington.
Chairman Coffey told the crowd he would like to take as many descendents as possible for the presentation ceremony as this was a truly historical accomplishment that may never happen again. He also stated he would like this to be a once in a lifetime trip for those descendents who have never been outside of Comanche Country. Visits to the World War II, Korean and Vietnam War Memorials, the Iwo Jima statue, laying a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, visiting Arlington National Cemetery, where one Comanche veteran is buried and touring the Museum of the American Indian were some the trip
The Comanche Nation News
agenda items presented. Tribal Administrator Owens said he will begin a fund raising campaign for the ceremony in Washington. Asepermy will continue working with the Department of the US Treasury securing a presentation date. He would also like to thank Betty Birdsong of the Treasury Mint Department for her expert guidance and recommendations during the design phase. Note: Please read the attached ar-
ticle about the Congressional Gold Medal and the Comanche soldiers who received the medal.
UPDATE ON COBELL SETTLEMENT PAYMENTS March 1, 2013 Deadline for Claims in Trust Administration Class
The Cobell settlement calls for two payments to be made to eligible class members. The Historical Accounting Class (or Stage 1) payments of $1,000 to each eligible class member started December 14, 2012 and are on-going. The current estimate is that the Trust Administration Class (or Stage 2) payment will be a base amount of $800. Individuals with an IIM account open between 1985 and September 30, 2009 may receive more than $800. This payment is separate from, and in addition to, the $1,000 payment to individuals in the Historical Accounting Class. Please share the information in your communities about
the March 1, 2013 deadline to submit claims in the Trust Administration Class so that those who may be eligible are able to participate. The deadline for filing a claim for Stage 2 is March 1, 2013. Go to http:// www.indiantrust.com/claim or call 1-800-961-6109 to file a claim.
istration Class (or Stage 2) will be made in 2013, possibly early fall, after a process of identifying all the class members is completed. The federal Judge handling the historic Cobell settlement appointed a special master on December 19, 2012 to oversee distribution of approximately $1.5 billion to individual Indian trust beneficiaries. Judge Thomas F. Hogan's order sets forth specific issues to be determined by the Honor-
at NCAI's upcoming Executive Council Winter Session, March 4 - 7 in Washington, D.C. Please share the information in your communities about the March 1, 2013 deadline to submit claims in the Trust Administration Class so that those who may be eligible are able to participate. If anyone is unsure if they are eligible, go to http:// www.indiantrust.com/claim or call 1-800-961-6109 to file a claim or ask questions.
able Richard A. Levie (Ret.), based in the Washington, D.C. office of JAMS, as the Special Master. One of Judge Levie's principal responsibilities will be to resolve disputes over the eligibility for participation by claimants in the Trust AdminOthers who think they may be istration Class distributions. eligible for payments in Stage 2 Payments to the Trust Admin- Judge Levie will be a speaker
For more information on the Cobell and Keepseagle settlements, go to www.ncai.org/ ProtectNativeMoney and click on the update.
Anyone who already receives Individual Indian Money (IIM) account statements or received a payment in Stage 1, the Historical Accounting Class, is already included in the Stage 2 class so there is no need to file a claim. However class members must make sure their contact information is kept up to date.
must file a claim by the March 1, 2013 deadline. The eligibility for Stage 2 payments is: • Anyone alive on September 30, 2009, and who o Had an IIM account recorded in currently available electronic data in federal government systems ("Electronic Ledger Era") anytime from approximately 1985 to September 30, 2009, or o Can demonstrate ownership interest in trust land or land in restricted status as of September 30, 2009. • The estate of any deceased beneficiary whose IIM account was open or whose trust assets had been in probate as reflected in the federal government's records as of September 30, 2009.
NCAI Contact Information: Sherry Salway Black, Partnership for Tribal Governance Initiative - sblack@ncai.org
March 2013
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The Comanche Nation News
Programs Comanche Nation Prescription Assistance The Prescription Assistance Program will be closed March 25 - 27 for training and will reopen on March 28. Clients that are due for their voucher during that time will be eligible to get them a week early.
Photos by Jolene Schonchin/News Staff
Comanche Nation Environmental Offers Free Tire and Batteries Disposal
OUTREACH SUCCESS. The Comanche Nation Programs set up Outreach Days in Dallas, Tx. and Wichita, Kan. in February to assist out-of-state tribal members. Over 500 tribal members total were able to utilize the event and receive help and information from several departments. Top left, Christian Boos of the Adult Education Program helps a student fill out paperwork in Dallas. Bottom, Diabetes Awareness Program Director, Marilyn Figueroa, checks the blood pressure of tribal members in Wichita. An outreach is scheduled in Albuquerque, NM March 22-23.
Step Aerobic Class 5:45 p.m.-6:45 p.m. Every Tuesday and Thursday Comanche Nation Fitness Center Lawton Jolene Schonchin--Instructor Goes toward Work Out Warrior 150 Minutes per Week
The Comanche Nation Environmental Offers public disposal of tires and batteries in the month of February.This was very successful and the public participation was overwhelming. The EPA Program offered the free service to the public to make sure that both batteries and tires were disposed of properly. The EPA’s total pick up included: Anadarko (Feb.4th5th) - 104 total tires Apache (Feb.6th-7th) 552 passenger tires, and 4 tractor tires Cache (Feb.11th-12th) - 687 passenger tires, 135 tractor tires, and 29 semi tires Walters (Feb. 19th20th) - 790 total tires Lawton (Feb. 21st22nd) 333 total tires. The Comanche EPA Program’s tire and battery disposal is just one of many services to help clean our communities and our environment.
Obituaries
Poafpybitty
Funeral service for Charles Allan Poafpybitty, 68 of Lawton was January 19, at Comanche Community Center in Apache, Okla., with Paster Charles Spencer officiating assisted by Lay Person Ricky Horse. Prayer service was held on January 18, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel. Burial followed at Cache Creek KCA Cemetery, Apache under the direction of Comanche Nation Funerl Home. He passed away peacefully on January 15 at his home with his family by his side. He was bor to Rev. Carl Poafpybitty and Etheline Keys Poafpybitty in Wichita Kan. He
grew up in the Oklahoma City area and attended Western Heights High School where he graduated. He was a member of the Comanche Tribe of Oklahoma. Poafpybitty was a professional interior/exterior contractor. He worked many years with Robert E. Lee, Jeff Woolsey and David Moore until he started his own business. He enjoyed his chosen profession, which he took great pride in. He was a member of the Comanche Reformeed Church where he served many roles in the congregation. He was a Sunday School Teacher, Youth leader, Church custodian, Deacon and Elder. He also attended the Petarsy United Methodist Church. He loved to study God’s word and spread the Gospel. He loved watching his favorite teams: OU Sooners and the Oklahoma City Thunders. To him the best things in the world were being at home surrounded by his loving wife, children, grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, and loving on the family dog “Precious.” He is survived by his wife Dorothy Island Poafpybitty of the home; children: Julieanna Island, Cameron
Island, Chelsea Poafpybitty, Justin Poafpybitty, Candace Todd Valle and husband Albert Valle, Janice Durant all of Lawton, Courtney Island Kester of Thomas, Okla., Michelle Vanhoose, Sarah Poafpybitty of Lawton, Lance Poafpybitty and Lionel Poafpybitty of Idabel, Okla.; adopted sons: Robet “Tubby” Todd, Roger Todd, Joseph “J.E.” Todd, David Todd all of Calument, Okla., sisters: Linda Poafpybitty of Anadadarko, and Sandra Todd of Oklahoma City; brother Donald Poafpybitty of Lawton; special neice, Troylynn Poafpybitty of Des Moines, IA; 26 grandchildren, three great-granchildren, one adopted grandson: Derrick Huggins; many cousins, neices, nephews, other relatives and loving friends. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He is preceded in death by his parents: Rev. Carl Poafpybitty and Etheline Keys Poafpybitty; two brothers: Gene Ray Poafpybitty and Kenneth Poafpybitty; one sister Karen Guoladdle; two infant sons: Charles Allan Poafpybitty and Jared Allan Poafpybitty.
Blair
Pamela Rose (Red Elk) Blair of Indiahoma went to her heavenly home on February 10, in Lawton, Okla. Funeral service was February 15, at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel. Burial followed at Temple Cemeteray in Temple, Okla. Prayer service was february 14 at Comanche Nation Funeral Home Chapel. Blair was born on November 23, 1964 to Arnold Lee and Nancy Faye (Pangus) Red Elk in Lawton, Okla. She was married to Terry Blair, Sr. on June 15, 1985 in Cache, Okla. She was a dedicated wife, mother and grandmother. She enjoyed crafting and spending time with her family. She is survived by her
children: Brandi and Brandon Locklear of Cache, Dusty and Shawn Norman of Chattanooga, Terry and Rachel Blair of Hastings; mother Nancy Pangus of Indiahoma; brothers and sisters: Rocky and Christy Red Elk of Cache, Misty and Richard Folsom of Hollis, David Red Elk of Lawton, Time and Alayna Pangus of Dallas, and Markus Pangus of Cache; aunts and uncles: Carol and Clifford Red Elk of Cache, Bobby Red Elk of Cache, John Red Elk of Cache, Dorothy Jenson of Indiahoma, Vicky and Jim Slatten of Cache, Judy Clowser of Lawton, LaNora Maharry of Lawton, Jerry Paddyaker of Cache, and Larry Paddyaker of Cache; grandchildren: Tatum and Autumn Shirley of Lawton, Okla., Austin and Hope Blair of Hastings, Raeanna Jeffery Guth of Chattanooga, Regina Nolen of Snyder, Stephen Guth of Italy, Vada, Buddy, Caitlyn Worden all of Corpus Christy, Tx; cousins,nephews and nieces and many friends. She is preceded in death by her husband: Terry Blair Sr.; father: Arnold Lee Red Elk; daughter: Tiffany Wynetter Blair.
March 2013
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The Comanche Nation News
People,Places and Things Happening
Rev. Fred C. Ticeahkie Rev. Jan Haury Ticeahkie
Everything done for the Lord will succeed. The Prayer Conference held on Dec. 9, 2012 was in agreement with Turner Broadcast Network (T.B.N.) in California, Oral Roberts Ministries in Oklahoma and Oklahoma District Council of the Assemblies of God. These prayers cover the entire Indian Nations in Oklahoma and U.S. May the Lord comfort all who mourn. A special thanks goes to the Tribal Administrator Will Owens and Comanche Nation Chairman Wallace Coffey for their help and use of the complex.
Kind Hearted Woman In a special two-part series, acclaimed filmmaker David Sutherland (The Farmer's Wife, Country Boys) creates an unforgettable portrait of Robin Charboneau, a 32-yearold divorced single mother and Oglala Sioux woman living on North Dakota's Spirit Lake Reservation. Sutherland follows Robin over three years as she struggles to raise her two children, further her education, and heal herself from the wounds of sexual abuse she suffered as a child. Robin's battles in tribal court with her ex-husband for custody of the children, even after he is convicted of abusive sexual contact with his daughter, illuminates how serious this problem is on the reservation. Her quest to heal her family, find a man worthy
of her love, build a career, and fulfill her goal of returning to her reservation to help prevent the abuse of women and children, takes her on an intimate and inspiring journey full of heartbreak, discovery, and redemption. "As in my other films profiling rural poverty," says Sutherland, "I was trying to reach out to another forgotten corner of the American landscape, this time to put a face on a Native family so that we could see them close-up with all the detail that illuminates the rich reality of their lives." Kind Hearted Woman is a special co-presentation of FRONTLINE and Independent Lens. Annual St. Patrick’s Day Downtown Street Festival Wichita Falls, Texas The annual St. Patrick’s Downtown Street Festival will be taking place Saturday, March 16th from 4:30 pm to 11pm (8th & Indiana). One of the biggest events in Wichita Falls, the St. Patrick’s Day Downtown Street Festival has become a must-go for Texhoma residents. This year, the Downtown Wichita Falls Development is proud to present four outstanding bands. Coming all the way from Ireland is Goitse, a dynamic, five-piece band that is quickly making a name for themselves among connoisseurs of traditional Irish music. Effortlessly combining well-known Irish tunes with their own contemporary flair, it is easy to see why Goitse is in high-demand on the international stage. The Killdares are returning to bring their high-energy Celtic rock to the St. Pat's Stage. Traditional Celtic bagpipes and fiddles paired with electrifying rock 'n roll riffs will have you dancing a jig you didn't know you had in you! The Gourds have made a name for themselves through
their own unique bluegrass “junkyard sound”. Ironically, they are best known for their Snoop Dog cover. Who else can combine Snoop and bluegrass and come out with a Top 10 hit single? Last, but certainly not least, is local favorite the Josh Weathers Band. Recently named the Fort Worth Weekly 2012 Music Awards Winner “Best Blues/Soul” & “Best Male Vocalist”, Mr. Weathers leads a powerhouse four-piece band through R&B, funk, rock and soul. In addition to the foottapping music, dozens of vendors will be selling mouthwatering foods, unique crafts and must-have wares. Keeping with our goal of being “family friendly”, a children’s area will be set up with plenty of rides, games and fun for everybody, young and old. Feelin’ Lucky? We will also be hosting our 5K “Race to the Pot O’ Gold!” The St. Patrick’s Day Downtown Dash 5K starts at 3:00pm at the Farmers Market (8th & Ohio St). Pre-registration is $25 and Race Day Registration is $30. First place finisher receives the “Pot O’ Gold” Top Prize. Runners receive $5 off admission into the Festival, a commemorative t-shirt, and runners 21 and over can present valid ID at the Registration Table and receive a beer ticket to redeem at Festival. Prizes and Awards given! To register, go to: http:// www.active.com/5k-race/ wichita-falls-tx/st-patricks-
velopment office. Tickets are $12 in advance for the general public, $10 in advance for college students and military and $15 at the gate. Ages twelve and under are free. Our events go on Rain or Shine! No Refunds for inclement weather. For further information contact: Erin Marvin, Downtown Wichita Falls Development (940) 322-4525, assistant@downtownproud.com
Comanche Member Tevin Foster South Dakota Bound
Pictured above Foster and his family. From Left to Right; Grandmother: Joyce Burruss-Tahah, Foster, Parents: Lisa and Darone Dawsey Submitted by Lisa Dawsey
purchase in advance at many convenient locations, including the Sheppard AFB ITT office, Market Street, United, The Iron Horse Pub or at the Downtown Wichita Falls De-
Tevin Foster, a senior at Lawton High and a member of the Comanche Tribe, has signed a NCAA Division 1 full football scholarship with the University of South Dakota. Tevin is the son of Darone and Lisa Dawsey and the grandson of Joyce Tahah-Burruss and Dirl Burruss. Foster has a 3.8 GPA and excels in other sports besides football including basketball, baseball, and track. LHS coach Randy Breeze said, “South Dakota has stuck with Foster throughout the season, even when he suffered that broken bone in his vertebrae. They like his quickness and they are expecting him to get a good look at either cornerback or wide receiver. They were really high on him even after the injury forced him to miss those games.” Foster who is also one of the state’s best point guards in basketball, has also
Tribes. Many Apache Tribes, including Fort McDowell Yavapai Apache, White Mountain Apache Tribe, Jicarilla Apache Tribe and Mescalero Apache Tribe are also opposed to this legislation, as is the Navajo Nation and others. In addition to Tribal opposition, the proposed legislation is also strongly opposed by major environmental groups including the Access Fund, Arizona Mining Reform Coalition, Tucson Audubon Society, Friends of Ironwood Forest, Earthworks, and Sierra Club. The land is used by recreationists, hikers, and campers and is one of the nation's premiere rock climbing sites. Said Don Steuter, Conservation Chair for the Sierra Club's Grand Canyon (Arizona) Chapter, "This bill is nothing more than special interest legislation for a foreign mining corporation. It allows Rio Tinto to privatize public, sacred lands, including Oak Flat, which are of incalculable value to Native Americans, birders, rock climbers, and endangered species. And it does this by sidestepping a cornerstone of our environmental laws – the National Environmental Policy Act. We strongly oppose this bill and we are disappointed that some in our congressional
delegation are once again trying to bypass the public and push through this bad deal. This legislation will harm our lands and provide little return to the American public." RCM has lobbied Congress to enact this land swap since 2004. The legislation would mandate the Secretary of Agriculture to transfer more than 2,400 acres of the Oak Flat Campground and surrounding public land in the Tonto National Forest to RCM. RCM has indicated it will use the block-cave mining technique to extract the copper from Arizona public lands, a process that will destroy huge swaths of land in the Tonto National Forest and consume more than 40,000 acre feet of water yearly. In addition to the massive water withdrawal, the process will release toxins through the mining process that can contaminate and further deplete Arizona's precious and limited water supply. RCM is owned by Rio Tinto PLC (United Kingdom) and BHP Billiton Ltd (Australia). Rio Tinto is partially owned by the Government of China. Because the proposal does not require that copper assets be kept in the U.S., China, and not the U.S., is positioned to be the chief beneficiary of
day-downtown-dash-2013 Presale tickets will be available at http://downtownproud. ticketleap.com/stpatricksday/ Tickets will be available to
been mulling over offers in that sport, including one from Cameron University where he would be on the roster with older brother Craig Foster. During his football season, he was selected to wear the black helmet at the beginning of the season. He was also given the Hall of Fame Jersey #5, which has not been worn for two years. University of South Dakota ReportsTevin Foster, 5-11, 175, defensive back, Lawton HS, Lawton, Okla. As a senior, Foster caught 11 passes for 187 yards, ran seven times for 77 yards and recorded six tackles and one interception in three games. A four-sport athlete, Foster is a four-year starter in basketball, where he is averging 23 points per game, and has been timed at 39.9 in the 300-hurdles and 15.3 in the 110-high hurdles. Glenn’s take: “Tevin Foster is a fantastic all-around athlete. He plays just about every sport they have, whether its football, basketball, or track, and he’s even a shortstop in baseball. Tevin put up 38 points in one of his most recent basketball games and is just a fine all-around athlete. He’ll play corner for us.” Congratulations to Tevin Foster for all your accomplishments and may many more await you.
Dancers Needed in Dallas
Powwow dancers in different categories are needed for future presentations in the Dallas area. For more information, contact Jolene Schonchin, Comanche Nation PIO Director, at (580) 492-3386 or email, jolenes@comanchenation. com.
Coalition Opposes New "Southeast Arizona Land Exchange and Conservation Act of 2013" San Carlos Apache Tribe, Concerned Citizens and Retired Miners Coalition, Sierra Club's Grand Canyon (Arizona) Chapter and Arizona Mining Reform Coalition Unite to Oppose Land Swap. SAN CARLOS, Ariz., Feb. 19, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Representatives Paul Gosar (R, AZ District 4) and Ann Kirkpatrick (D, AZ District 1) re-introduced the "Southeast Arizona Land Exchange and Conservation Act of 2013," formerly H.R. 1904 in the 112th Congress. "It is outrageous that members of our Arizona Congressional delegation support a land swap that benefits a foreign mega-mining giant over what's best for Arizona," said Terry Rambler, Chairman, San Carlos Apache Tribe. "Resolution Copper Mining (RCM), owned by Rio Tinto which does business with Iran, wants to blast a 7,000 foot deep, massive block-cave mine into sacred land in the Tonto National Forest. This land was set aside in 1955 by President Eisenhower for its religious, cultural, traditional, recreational and archaeological significance. "We, along with many tribes, and recreational and environmental organizations, have opposed this land swap
and the mine for more than seven years. Arizona cannot afford this deal. The mine would be an environmental disaster on an unprecedented scale and the job claims made by the copper company are unsubstantiated. As Apaches, we will continue to fight to preserve this land for all Arizonans." The Chairman emphasized that the real cost of this bill is not jobs, but desecration and destruction of a significant sacred site. He also expressed concern that the extraction process would consume voluminous amounts of water. "Toxins released into groundwater by the block-cave mining process can contaminate our water supply throughout our region," Chairman Rambler noted. Tribes throughout the U.S. have joined the San Carlos Apache Tribe to oppose the Southeast Arizona Land Exchange and Conservation Act of 2013. The member Tribes of the Inter Tribal Councils of both Arizona and Nevada oppose this bill as does the National Congress of American Indians, Great Plains Tribal Chairman's Association, Affiliated Tribes of Northwest Indians, All Indian Pueblo Council of New Mexico, and United South and Eastern
the copper and other materials removed from the mine. Rio Tinto also does business with the Iran Foreign Investment Corporation, a wholly owned company of Iran. Rio Tinto and IFIC are partnering in a uranium mine in Africa. Rio Tinto and RCM have opposed any changes to the bill that would require the corporation to hire Arizonans and use Arizona resources in the operation. In addition, the bill avoids both an environmental assessment and public interest determination. "Resolution and its political allies don't tell you that the land exchange sidesteps critical safeguards provided by other federal laws," said Roy Chavez of Concerned Citizens and Retired Miners Coalition. "Arizona's senators and representatives should be cautious. If passed, this bill may leave Arizona with nothing but a massive hole in the ground and a huge cleanup bill costing the American taxpayers billions of dollars. That would be a most unfortunate legacy for Representatives Gosar and Kirkpatrick, as well as Senator McCain." Contact: Tanayia White, 928.961.0603
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The Comanche Nation News
Milestones Happy Belated Birthday Aaliyah Sky Kerchee, Andrew Anderson, January 4 Alex Anderson, January 27 Gary Wockmetooah, February 2 Ashlee Wermy, February 6 Robert Wells, February 6 Roberto Medina, February 6 Tamara Wermy, February 6 Donna Wahnee, February 7 Rance Hood, February 9 Alexa Faith Marie Martinez, February 10 Posey Liles, February 10 Bradley Murray, February 13 Brandon Murray, February 13 Billie Jean Anderson, February 15 Mary Pollard, February 16 Rolanda Santiago, February 18 Paterick Hoahwah Jr., February 18 Leela Chasenah, February 20 Jessie Otitivo, February 21 Gary Chasenah Sr., February 23 Cole Cook, February 25 Hokeah Hoahwah, February 25 Renee Castillo, February 26 Anthony Joseph Yellowfish, February 27 Connie Gregory, February 28 Jonathan Hoahwah, February 28 Kaleb Morris Martinez, February 28
Happy Belated Birthday Posey Liles February 10
Happy Birthday Roberto Medina February 6
Happy Birthday Billie Jean Anderson February 15
Happy Birthday Jessie Ototivo February 21
Anthony Joseph Yellowfish February 27
Happy Birthday
Happy Birthday Ashley Sandy March 2
Happy Birthday Lilly Ototivo March 5
Happy Birthday Romero Snell March 5
Happy Birthday Kyle Everett Tahpay Jr. March 7
Happy Birthday Juliana Santiago March 8
Happy Birthday Ryan Cintron March 9
Happy Birthday Fred Codynah Jr. March 11
Happy Birthday Jennifer Passah March 13 Happy St. Patricks Day! Michael S. Cook Jr & Sr From: Mother
Happy Birthday Josh Passah March 13 Happy St. Patricks Day! Tamera Chantel Wilson & Kids From: G-ma Barbara Cook
Happy Birthday Samantha Cintron-Lopez March 15 Congratulations!
Happy Birthday Ryder Dean Martinez, March 1 Ashley Sandy, March 2 Beverly Wermy, March 2 Alise Delaamarie Kerchee, March 4 Frankie Chasenah, March 4 Lilly Ototivo, March 5 Romero Snell, March 5 Brandy Ototivo, March 7 Kellea Kerchee, March 7 Kyle Everett Tahpay Jr., March 7 Juliana Santiago, March 8 Nyla Tahdooahnippah, March 9 Ryan Cintron, March 9 Sarah Daukei, March 9 Fred Codynah Jr., March 11 Neariah Poemoceah, March 12 Jennifer Passah, March 13 Joshua Passah, March 13 Jeremiah Teeters, March 13 Delayna Karty, March 14 Samantha Cintron Lopez, March 15 William Nelson Jr., March 17 Raphie L.J. Coosewoon, March 22 Miranda Poemoceah, March 23 Kyleigh Rae Neitzke, March 28 Charlotte Passah, March 29 Sandy Sustaita Jacob, March 29 Michelle Duran, March 30
Passings
Born: 5:52 A.M. January 9, 2013 6lbs’ 10oz’ 21in Happy Birthday William Nelson Jr. March 17
Happy Anniversary Larry & Sonya Liles February 14
Married 34 years
Lennie Lee Pickard July 12, 1958~January 16, 2013
Makencie Kay Murray
To: Bradley Murray & Jamie Howel
Happy Birthday Kyleigh Rae Neitzke March 28
Happy Anniversary John & Sunny Enriquez February 27
Married 4 years
Happy Anniversary Thomas & Ramona Hancox March 7 Married 26 years
Don’t Forget to submit milestones for those special loved ones; Just Married, Anniversaries, Birth Announcements, & Birthdays Deadline for April 3/15/13 Call: Public Information Office In Loving Memory (580) 492-3386 Daddy, I love and miss you. I wish you ere here to help me Email: through the rough times. I miss our talks and your way of teaching me right from wrong. I will always love you. Happy Birthday
Wilfred Niedo March 7
candacet @comanchenation.com
Or mail to: Comanche Nation/PIO P.O. Box Box 908 Lawton, OK 73502
Susan Nan Campbell Bearbow January 6, 1952~February 16, 2013
COMANCHES ON THE MOVE were in full force to see George “Comanche Boy” Tahdooahnippah take on Delvin Rodriquez. Participants were given the opportunity to travel to the Mohegan Sun Casino in Conn., to be part of the once in a lifetime experience for “Comanche Boy.” The fight was featured on ESPN’s “Friday Night Fights” on February 15.
March 2013
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The Comanche Nation News
Military
Submitted by Lanny Asepermy
the wound and still carries the SCARRED SO FRANK LEBARRE was promoted to Corporal on to Bernice his name and her July 17, 1917 and to Sergeant father, PFC Billy LeBarre, US OTHERS MAY LIVE AK-47 round in his body, his AND THE LOST right leg is 1/2 inch shorter on August 21, 1917 (unheard Army from 1948-49, will be FREE BATTALION
Poster of Lost Battalion movie
A movie called The Lost Battalion was released in December, 2001. It is based on a true story of the exploits of the 77th Division during World War I. Elements of the 77th was cut off and surrounded by German forces in the Argonne Forest during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive of 1918. Comanche veteran Frank LeBarre was a survivor of that offensive. The battalion numbered 554 soldiers of which 197 were killed, 163 were missing or captured and 194 were rescued, many of them wounded. They were outnumbered 6 to 1 and killed over 800 German soldiers before their rescue. I received a number of military documents from Comanche member Bernice LeBarre Posada on January 11, 2013 including information about her late grandfather, Frank Lewis LeBarre, who was gassed on October 3, 1918 and gunshot (by a machine gun) in the left knee on November 7, 1918.
Frank LeBarre Photo taken on February 20, 1943
The headline of the news article of the photo above, from the Tinker Field Take Off, reads “Relic Leaves Trunk For Trenches” and the caption reads “POTENT WEAPON - In jungle warfare, a knife such as is held in the above picture by Frank L. LeBarre, Chief, Headquarters Distibution Section, may mean the differeance between life and death to an American solider. LeBarre’s knife, which was part of his equipment in the Argonne forest during World War I. is the first to be turned in the Public Relations Office in the “Knives for Lives”campaign now underway at Tinker Field.” The knife is actually a machete and yes they are carried into combat by some soliders. According to a very faded United States Veterans Bureau Form 545, LeBarre was drafted into the US Army on June 25, 1894 and his place of birth Comanche County. His occupation was listed as a Printer; the Color of Eyes, Dark Brown; his hair, Black and his complexion, Dark. He is listed as single, 5’2” tall and a citizen of the U.S.A. LeBarre
of in today’s Army to earn the rank of Sergeant with less than two months of active service - he had to be an outstanding solider). LeBarre is the first Comanche to enter the military during World War I almost 5-6 months before the remaining 59 known Comanches who served during the war were either drafted or enlisted. The 77th was activated on August 18, 1917 and trained at Camp Upton outside the town of Yaphank, N.Y. They arrived in Liverpool, England in late March and April 1, 1918 and onto France in early May. LeBarre was assigned to Company K, 308th Infantry of the 77th. From October 2 to October 8, he endured some of the bloodiest fighting of the war. In addition, his unit suffered many hardships. Food was short and water was available only by crawling under fire to a nearby stream. Ammunition ran low, communications was a problem, they were bombarded by shells from their own artillery and every runner dispatched was either killed or captured. About as bad a situation any fighting force could encounter. Despite these odds the fighting men of the 308th held their ground and caused enough of a distraction for the allied units to break through the German line, which forced the Germans to retreat. Seven Congressional Medals of Honor and 27 Distinguished Service Crosses, many posthumously, were awarded during this battle. LeBarre should have received the first of two Purple Hearts for his action. During his 68 days in combat LeBarre fought in four major campaigns, Baccarat, Oise Aisne, Aisne-Marne and Meuse-Argonne. In addition to the two Purple Hearts he also earned the World War I Victory Medal with the clasps of the campaigns mentioned above. LeBarre retired from Civil Service, in early 1970’s, after 30+ years. According to his granddaughter, Bernice, he was in charge of a department that investigated aircraft crashes - he would travel 24/7 anywhere in the world when an Air Force aircraft crashed. After his retirement he worked for the Skirvin Tower in Oklahoma City. He would oftern travel to Old Mexico and the 101 Ranch near Ponca City to visit and stay with friends. It is ironic LeBarre passed away on July 4, 1980 at age 86+ years. His final resting place is the Arlington Memorial Park Cemetery in Spencer (Midwest City) Okla. He was married to Myrtle Bernice Kopepassah LeBarre and they had five children - LeBarre had four other children from a previous marriage. His father was John G. LeBarre (a native of Alsace, France who became a US citizen on October 3, 1896) and his mother was Anna Sonnahmoos Koassechony (1861904). He was one of ten children. His maternal grandparents were Tahnahroko Koassechony and Sonnawacka. LeBarre’s name was never put on the CIVA Court of Honor monuments (becuase it was never submitted). Thanks
added to the new monument stone which is scheduled to be in place by Memorial Day, 2013. LeBarre was never awarded the Purple Heart for being gassed or gun shot. Documentation has been submitted, on January 14, 2013, to the US Army to award the Purple Heart to the LeBarre family. We thank Sergeant LeBarre for his dedicated, faithful and honorable service to the US Army, the Comanche Nation and the United States of America - Rest in Peace Brother. Note: Another Comanche
46 known Comanche veterans have been awarded the Purple Heart. The Purple Heart is a United States decoration awarded in the name of the President to those who have been wounded or killed while serving on or after April 5, 1917 with the US military. Formerly called the Badge of Military Merit, the Purple Heart is the oldest military award still given to members of the US military.
Hero, World War II Army Air Force pilot and Prisoner of War, Myers Wahnee, also passed away on July 4, but in 1982.
Obverse and Reserve sides of the Purple Heart Medal
WORLD WAR I HERO PHOTOS FOUND
In the February issue of TCNN World War I Hero Mikey Tahdooahnippah was mentioned by his great-grandson, SGT Gregory Cole in an article about him and Anthony Beasley. SGT Cole passed on a story, told to him by his grandmother, about how Tahdooahnippah was guided to safety by a voice that simply said Haw. An image of Tahdooahnippah was shown from group painting of Comanche men at Fort Sill Indian School prior to reporting for active duty with the US Army. Thanks to Sam DeVenney two photos of Tahdooahnippah are shown below.
Mikey Tahdooahnippah
Mikey Tahdooahnippah on far right folding US Flag during a Retreat Ceremony
SGT Cole is back in Afghanistan for his second tour there. He also served one tour in Iraq. Numunu keep him in your prayers as he continues his military service, as a Combat Medic.
Records indicate that 11 Comanche Purple Heart recipients are alive today. 13 Comanches were awarded the Purple Heart posthumounsly and the other 22 recipients are deceased. The 11 living Purple Heart recipients are World War II veteran Gilbert Monatoby, Vietnam War veterans Richard Sapcutt, Chuck Choney (2), Johnny Tiddark, Lucien Looking Glass, George Red Elk, Leland Parker, Milton Codynah and Philip Rogers Sr. and War on Terror veterans Charles Eatmon and Joseph Gonzalez. The 13 Comanche awarded the Purple Heart posthumously are World War II veterans Johnny Rivas, Melvin Myers, Eli Hosetosavit, Ben Trevino, Thomas Chockpoyah, Gilbert Vidana, Henry Kosechata and Henry Conwoop; Korean War veterans Dennis Karty and Meech Tahsequah; Vietnam War veterans Russell Pesewonit and Robert Pahcheka; and War on Terror veteran Joshua Ware. The 22 deceased Comanches awarded the Purple Heart are World War I veterans Calvin Atchavit, Gilbert Conwoop, Edward Nahquaddy, Samuel Tabbytosevit, Mikey Tahdooahnippah, Frank LeBarre (2) and Cleveland Tahpay; World War II veterans Myers Wahnee, Perry Noyobad, Larry Saupitty (2), Forrest Kassanavoid, Henry Tomahsah, Mead Chibitty, Herbert Vidana, Edward Clark, Ralph Pewewardy, Floyd Paddyaker (2) and Samuel Chaat; Korean War veterans Edward Yellowfish and Roderick Red Elk and Vietnam War veteran Timothy Ototivo and Otto Tonips (2). There are many stories of how these Wounded Warriors suffered from their wounds and continue to suffer from the wounds throughout their lives. Monatoboy loss three toes on one of his feet from shell fragments during the first battle for Monte Cassion, Italy, he had fought in eight major battles in Africa and Italy prior to being wounded on January 13, 1944; Sapcutt was shot by a AK-47 rifle, during an ambush, in his left hip, the wound fractured a vertebra, he was flat on his back for four months recovering from
than his left leg because of the wound; Tiddark was wounded in both legs from the shrapnel of a command detonated mine and shrapnel in his back from an exploding grenade; G. Red Elk has a deformed finger on one of his hands from a rocket propelled grenade explosion that ripped into his hand, Red Elk continued to fight until passing out from pain and loss of blood; Clark was shot in his chest, considered dead, wrapped in a blanket and put into a grave before he was discovered alive, he had rescued two other wounded Marines during the fight; Atachvit was severely wounded in his left arm but still managed to kill one enemy solider and capture another; Trevino was killed by multiple shrapnel wounds during the fight for St. Lo, France; Tomahsah was wounded in his lower legs by a T-88 explosion while serving with the 4th Infantry Division, he eventually recovered from his wounds at Brooke Army Hospital, Tx; Rivas was killed with a direct hit from a T-88 round on D-Day, his resting place is the Normandy American Cemetery, France; Ware was shot in the back of his neck and died instantly, he was entering the house through a side door and bringing fire on the insurgents allowed the wounded Marines to be pulled to safety; Karty died in captivity from multiple gunshot and shrapnel wounds sustained fighting before his capture; Saupitty was twicewounded, the second time in the legs, head and arm from an air burst, when he was found, two hours after he was wounded, he had almost bled to death; no details on Kassanavoid wound; Wahnee was wounded in his ankle by flak before his aircraft, called Comanche, crashed; Tonips was twicewounded both times from shrapnel to his right leg and arm, he suffered from those wounds his entire life; Pahcheka died from a satchel charge explosion, an eye witness said, “he had killed quite a few of the enemy before he was fatally wounded;” Pesewonit was shot in the stomach by small arms fire at almost point-blank range and died instantly, an eye witness said “he and his Indian friend were walking to a high point to set up a listening post when a enemy soldier jumped up from some waist high brush and shot Pesewonit;” No information on Rogers wounds; No information on Chaat wounds; No information on Tabbytosevit wounds other than Calvin Atachavit mentioning he was in the same hospital as him with a bad foot; Not information on Chockpoyah wounds except he was killed during intense fighting for the city of St. Servan in France; Tahsequah’s aircraft was shot down near Susa, North Korean propaganda; Chibitty was wounded by a land mine (after being treated for shrapnel wounds to his legs, a severe conclusion and complete hearing loss he continued his mission); No information on Noyobad wound; Choney was twice-wounded, both times from sharpnel, the first time on May 1, 1970 Continued on Page 9
March 2013
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The Comanche Nation News
Continued from Page 8
when shrapnel from an explosion penetrated one hand and the back of his neck, he spent two months in a Japan hospital recovering, he was again wounded on July 2 from a satchel charge that sent shrapnel into his mouth (knocking out a tooth), legs and thumb, he also suffered complete hearing loss and has very limited use of two fingers on his wounded hand; Eatmon was twicewounded, no information of his wounds; No information on Yellowfish wounds; Looking Glass was given a Purple Heart but was actually wounded twice in the same day, once from a gunshot to his leg and then shrapnel from a land mine to both his legs, he cheated death and took over a year to recover from those wounds; Gonzalez suffered a concussion and traumatic brain injury when the vehicle he was riding in hit an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) wounding all six occupants, despite the concussion he managed to treat the wounded until they were evacuated; Hosetosavit died from enemy aircraft bomb and shell fragments as well as heavy artillery fire; No information on Myers wounds other than he was killed after he rescued another solider during a ferocious battle for the city of Ste. Mere Eglise, France; No information on R. Red Elk wounds he sustrained during the Korean War; H. Conwoop was fatally wounded from shell fragments to his chest while serving in the Philippines; H. Kosechata was shot by a sniper and died from that wound, according to an “after action” report he was killed by gunshots received while near Buckeburg, Belgiium - the report also said it was a sad day for A Company as PVT Henry Kosechata died from wound; Parker was wounded from mortar shrapnel to his left leg while his patrol
was taking a break near Con Thein, after he and another wounded Marine were medevac the doctor removed the shrapnel without giving him any pain medication, Parker said “the pain was excruciating and he thought the doctor was trying to get him to yell;” G. Conwoop was severly wounded in the arm; Nahquaddy was gassed and wounded but did not go to the hospital; Tahdooahnippah spent two months in England hospitals recovering from his wounds; the Daily Oklahoman stated Tahpay was severely wound in France; LeBarre was gassed on October 3, 1918 and suffered a gun wound, from a German machine gun on November 7, 1918; Pewewardy received a gun shot wound to one of his legs shortly after the D-Day invasion, he called it a “million dollar” wound as his military service was curtailed because of the wound; G. Vidana was killed by a gunshot to his back near the city of Schlausenback, Germany; H. Vidana received gunshot wounds to his chest during intense fighting near Vielsalm, Belgium; according to Vietnam War Hero, Eddie Mahseet, Ototivo was shot in the chest, back and one of his legs during a ambush, the Walters newspaper published an article about him being killed in action which they later recanted, his wounds were so severe the Marine Corps medically retired him, Codynah was wounded while serving with the 4th Infantry Division, no details of the action when he was wounded and Paddyaker was twice-wounded on March 25 and April 1, 1943 while fighting inland after the Anzio beachhead landing in Italy, according to his brother, Carl, he lived the rest of his life with a metal plate in his head. A personal note: To see
someone killed or wounded is not a
very pretty sight - June 25, 1969 one of the worst experineces of my life when an Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) traveling directly in front of my APC, ran over a 122 mm rocket buried on a trail we were following. Time seemed to stop as I saw four men blown out of the APC, three onto the ground and the fourth out of the driver’s compartment then back into the compartment again. When I reached the burning APC and attempted to pull the soldier out of the compartment, his flesh tore off his skin when I grabbed him. Another soldier and I had to rig up a poncho under the soldier and lift him from the APC and onto the ground. He was “bloated” and black from the explosion and had a large gash on his throat from almost ear to ear, his mouth, nose and ears seeped blood. His eyes were totally bloodshot but open, he was breathing. I remember, to this day, looking him in the eyes and wondered if he knew he was going to die, which he did enroute, by helicopter, to our base camp. The soldier was a member on my 20-man Scout Section. He was 21/1 months from being 21 years old, married and had a child on the way. His name was Carlos Chavez from Oxnard, Cali., and he was a good Solider. His name is on the Vietnam War Memorial Wall, Panel 09W Line 090. During my second visit to the Wall, in 2002, I etched his name onto a plain white sheet of paper and mailed it to his wife. I wrote her about a conversation he and I had a couple of days before his death, about us both being Catholic and alter boys, about his love for her and the child they were expecting and that he was a good man and brave soldier. Rest in peace brother.
Photos are being requested for World War I wounded veterans Cleveland Tahpay and Edward Nahquaddy, World War II veterans Herbert Vidana, Floyd Paddyaker and Ralph Pewewardy or Vietnam War veterans Timothy Ototivo and Milton Codynah. If any family members have a photo of these heros please contact the CIVA Historian, Lanny Asepermy, at (580) 588-2377 or (580) 678-4629 or email at sgtmajase@yahoo. com or P.O. Box 247, Apache, OK 73006.
The Comanche Indian Veterans have approved a Wounded Warrior Medallion for the living Comanche veterans and/or the next of kin of the deceased veterans. The medallions will be presented at the CIVA Ninth Annual Armed Forces Day Banquet on May 18, at the Comanche Community Center in Apache. Questions can be directed to the CIVA Commander, George Red Elk, at (580) 512-2225 or CIVA SEEKS the Historian (information listPRINCESS ed above). The Comanche Indian Veterans Association (CIVA) is accepting nominations for CIVA Princess 2013-15. Nomination packets must include TRULY TRAGIC a 5x7 color photo in regalia, copy of CDIB and a bio. Qualifications include; Be between the ages of 13-19 years old at the time of her selection; Enrolled member of the Comanche Nation; A direct descendent of a veteran (father, mother, brother, sister, grandparents, uncle or aunt); Never married or co-habituated; Have no children; Must have own reGold Star War Mothers, sisters galia and be of utmost characAnna Roach Trevino on left and ter. Mary Roach Vidana on right. The deadline for sub Perhaps one of the mission of nomination packets most tragic stories in modern is March 31 to Lanny AseperComanche military history is my at PO Box 247, Apache, three of the nine members of OK 73006 or email packet to the Rivas, Trevino and Vidana sgtmajase@yahoo.com. For families, who served during questions call CIVA ComWorld War II, were killed in mander George Red Elk at action within a 100-day period, 512-2225 or Asepermy at 588June 6, August 3 and Septem- 2377/678-4629. ber 16, 1944. They were John- Interviews will be connie Rivas, Ben Trevino and ducted during the April 4, 2013 Gilbert Vidana, first cousins - CIVA monthly meeting at the their mothers Pat Roach Rivas, Code Talker Meeting Room in Anna Roach Trevino and Mary the Nation’s Education BuildRoach Vidana were sisters. ing. The meeting starts at 6 The sisters were the children of p.m. Benjamin Roach and Po-kin, The new Princess will both full-blood Comanches. be crowned at the CIVA 8th Each sister endured the loss of Annual Armed Forces Day a son. Another son of Anna, Banquet on May 18th at the Samuel Trevino, was a Prison- Comanche Community Center er of War. The three counsins in Apache. are buried in Europe.
Comanche Nation Nursing Home coming soon
Story and Photos by, Stacey Heminokeky
A nursing home meeting was held on February 5th at 6:30p.m. The event was held at 1001 SE 36TH St. in Lawton, which could potentially be the site of the Comanche Nation nursing home. The meeting was conducted by Chairman Wallace Coffey. The discussions provided tribal members and other interested parties to hear of the progress and future plans of the Comanche Nation nursing home. Chairman Coffey invited all retired and active healthcare professionals to attend. Everyone in attendance was given the opportunity to tour the site and a dinner was also provided. The facility was built in 2010 with state of the Pictured above: Chairman Wallace Coffey speaking to the Comanche Tribal members about the furnished art amenities. The 9 rooms nursing home and how it will benefit the Elders of the Comanche Tribe. have never been occupied and are fully furnished with televisions, beds, and etc. The tribe plans to make an additional 20 rooms available. This facility also includes furnished administrative offices. The meeting was very informative and gave tribal members a look at one of the new and exciting endeavors the tribe has in it’s future.
The nurses station which is located in the middle part of the home. The living room is what you see when you first walk inside the nursing home.
March 2013
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The Comanche Nation News
“I am Coming Back Faster and Stronger than Ever” Although George “Comanche Boy” Tahdooahnippah Suffered his first Defeat out of 33 Matches, He Still Holds Two Belts and Vows to Comeback Better
Story by Reporter Jolene Schonchin
He may have lost his first match, but George “Comanche Boy” Tahdooahnippah is still a boxing champion. He holds two title belts, and has an outstanding record of 33 wins. “I could not get going,” he posted on his Comanche Boy Facebook page following the Feb. 15 match against Delvin Rodriguez. Rodriguez told ESPN he was very suprised by the speed and endurance of Tahdooahnippah. Several fans across the land supported Comanche Boy before and after his match. A Sending Off Party was held Feb. 11 at the Comanche Nation Casino in Lawton, and a Welcome Home Reception was held Feb. 19 at Watchetaker Hall. “I want to thank everyone for their support,” said Tahdooahnippah at his Welcome Home Reception. “It is very humbling.” Tahdooahnippah began as a winner in the Comanche County Tough Man Competition, and has progressed rapidly up the boxing charts. “ I am not done,” he said. “ I will come back faster and stronger than ever. This is only the beginning.”
Photo by Wil Niedo/ Comanche Nation Web Manager
Tahdooahnippah hits Rodriguez with a left jab in round three of the boxing match.
Photo by Wil Niedo/ Comanche Nation Web Manager
George “Comanche Boy”Tahdooahnippah hits opponent Delvin Rodriguez in Round four of the ESPN Friday Night Fights Boxing Match Feb. 15 in Uncansvills, Ct.
“Comanche Boy” pose with his entourage during the “Comanche Boy” send off party held at the Comanche Nation Casino.
George “Comanche Boy” Tahdooahnippah smiles before greeting the congregation at the Welcome Home party.
March 2013
11
The Comanche Nation News
Comanche County Tournaments Basketball at It’s Finest
Brooke Roberts Indiahoma High School
Every year in January the Comanche County Tournaments are held at the Great Plains Colisuem in Lawton, Okla. Area schools in the county participated in the week long competition, with hopes of becoming Comanche County Champions. This year Comanche tribal member were a huge part of the tournament, as well as every year in the past and future years to come. Tribal members consisted of coaches, players and team managers. Each year the tournament gives tribal players a chance to show what great talent and sportsmanship each one has. The tournament seems to have become a tradition with tribal members setting county tournament records. Some of these records has yet to be broken.
Mia Niedo Cache High School
Jordan Gooday Geronimo High School
Tdommy Johnson Indiahoma High School