Comanche Indian Veterans Association Celebrates Memorial Day

On Monday, May 26, Comanche Indian Veterans Association (CIVA) held a Memorial Day ceremony at Watchetaker Hall.

CIVA Commander Roger Tehauno said the day is in remembrance of fallen soldiers.

“We should honor their life…and their memory because…they went to fight for us…without any hesitation,” he said. “Last year, when we went to France, and we went on the beach where they landed. And you just imagine yourself, there was no cover, just water. And the soldiers were going through that water trying to get up…on the beach there. And bullets going around them, you know, and it just gives you an eerie feeling.”

Tehauno said Memorial Day is a solemn day.

“You think about what they did, the soldiers and veterans, on all the others that have gone on…,” he said. “People that you've grown up with…that guided your life and gave you advice and helped you…they're not here anymore. Being…an elder of the tribe now…You grow up and you become more aware of other people, you know, and you want to try to do good. And you take everything that you learned and try to put it…to the best…with your family. And you let the families know that, you know, ‘Your grandfather or your great-grandfather…were in the military and they served the country and that we should honor their memory.’”

Tehauno said it’s hard to have Comanches talk about their time in the service.

“Comanches don't generally talk about themselves,” he said. “It's hard being a commander here. It's hard getting a Comanche veteran to...tell what he did in the military…because they don't want to brag or say anything about what they did. And it's hard. And it's been that way for a long time. But it's hard getting that information. But once you get it, you treasure it, you cherish it, and you want to put it where people can see it.You know, ‘This is what they did.’ Because I know in the old days my grandfather would tell me that…the Comanche warrior didn't get up and brag about himself, but his friend would tell about his deeds.”

One of his fellow soldiers died in combat.

“When I was going overseas, my dad said, ‘Don't make friends.’ I didn't know what he was talking about. I mean, I had an idea, but I thought he wanted me to be, you know, uppity or something,” he said. “But I found out, you know. I lost a friend overseas, and it's a hollow feeling. You kind of feel empty. Because…he'll forever be like about 22. But..I'll probably see him again, maybe after I go. But I think about him, you know. And knowing that someday…we may see each other. But they'll be young and I'll be old.”

He said they’re trying to build a library of photos and biographies of Comanche veterans, and those interested can call the Comanche Nation Tribal Headquarters.

CIVA Princess Clara Yazzie was also at the event.