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New sign
Wednesday, November 20 was a great day for the Comanche Nation with the honoring of the Comanche Code Talkers. This day had special meaning for the Code Talkers because on this day six years ago, the Comanche Nation was given the Congressional Gold Meadal in honor of the Code Talkers. This is why the Nation chose this day to do the unveiling. Highway 5 starting at 277 for 5 miles east towards Walters was named Comanche Code Talker Trail Way.
The unveiling of the sign was a great honor to these men from WWII. Mayor of Walters, Roberta Ellis and State Representative Toni Hasenbeck proposed a bill to rename the highway which was signed by Governor Stitt.
Kevin Pohawpatchoko, member of the Comanche Indian Veterans Association (CIVA), opened the ceremony with introductions, welcoming everyone and acknowledgment of the dignitaries present with a bit of history on the Code Talkers. Mayor Ellis and State Representative Hasenbeck stated their pleasure in being able to help make this a dream come true for the Comanche Nation. Comanche Nation Chairman William Nelson Sr. spoke on the importance of this honor and what the Code Talkers did during the wars. Remarks by the Vice-Chairman of the Comanche Business Committee LaNora Parker were made. Llyod Heminokey and his grandson did a blessing for the new sign. The Comanche Code Talker Song was sung. Before the unavailing of the new sign the descendants were given Utah Beach Sand and asked to place the sand around and under the sign.
One of the descendants was George Red Elk, who stated how proud of his father he was and he is the reason he joined the Army. Not only was his father in WWII but he went to Korea as well.
These are the names of the nine Comanches from Walters:Roderick Red Elk, Melvin Permansu, Willie Yackeschi, Elgin Red Elk, Haddon Codynah, Robert Holder, Clifford Otitivo, Albert Nahgquaddy Jr., Anthony Tabbytite.