The Main Stream
Navajo Code Talker and Silver Medal honoree dies
Posted: Jun 26, 2012 11:23 AM
WINDOW ROCK (AP) - A Navajo Code Talker and former Navajo Nation vice president has died.
Frank Chee Willeto, 87, died Saturday in his home in Pueblo Pintado, New Mexico, according to the Navajo Nation.
The Crownpoint, New Mexico native enlisted with the U.S. Marines 6th Division in 1944, where he completed Code Talker training classes. He then served in the Pacific Theater in Saipan and Okinawa.
After World War II, he returned to the reservation and began working with the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs roads department from 1946 to 1974.
He also served as vice president of the Navajo Nation under the Milton Bluehouse administration.
Willeto received the Congressional Silver Medal in 2001 for his role as a Navajo Code Talker.
Funeral services are pending.
Photo: Courtesy Navajo Nation
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