World War II Hero, William Tully Brown, Who Was A Navajo Code Talker Dies At 96

Jun 14, 2019 by apost team

One of the surviving Navajo code talkers recently passed away at 96-years-old. William Tully Brown was instrumental in the use of the Navajo code during World War II. He, along with a group of brave men, was able to help send coded messages that still to this day were never deciphered. Brown is one of three code talkers that have passed away since May, according to the Navajo Nation in an interview with CNN.

The Navajo code was used during the Korean, Vietnamese and Second World War as a method of communication that couldn't be deciphered by enemy combatants. In the battle for the Pacific, these codes played a vital role in America's war efforts. It was used in nearly all Marine operations in this area. A report from CNN stated, "Brown was one of about 400 Navajos who used their language to develop a code to transmit top-secret and confidential messages throughout World War II', says Peter MacDonald, president of the Navajo Code Talkers Association."

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During the intense and decisive battle for Iwo Jima, the Navajo code talkers were able to transmit over 800 messages successfully. These messages proved to be a critical component in the United States' victory in this area. William Tully Brown served valiantly alongside his colleagues and lived a full life after his service. He died on June 3rd in the small town of Winslow, Arizona. The cause of his death is still unknown. Due to his age, it appears that the cause may have been natural. This is pure speculation as details have yet to be released to the public.

In 1944, Brown enlisted to serve in the Marine Corps. He received an honorable discharge in 1946 and received an impressive amount of awards and accolades including the Honorable Service Lapel Button, the World War II Victory Medal, the Navy Occupation Service Medal, the Asiatic-Pacific Campaign Medal, and the American Campaign Medal.

Brown's granddaughter Delilah Yazzie told Farmington Daily Times that her grandfather enjoyed making others laugh. She mentioned that the retired Marine would only discuss the experiences of the war when asked adding that he was a humble and reserved person. When he was comfortable, Brown would be making jokes and encouraging people to laugh.

The Navajo code talkers were chosen by the U.S. government in order to develop a code that couldn't be cracked by enemies during the war. Their brave efforts and adept skill proved decisive in the war. As the World War II generation ages, it is important to remember their sacrifices.

William Tully Brown was not only a war hero but a humble and amazing person that should be remembered and celebrated for years to come. Pass this article along to someone you think would enjoy reading this.