The Warrior Spirit Lives On: Honoring Our Native American Veterans

Brandon Colbert | November 13, 2025 | Events

On November 10, 2025, Haskell Indian Nations University hosted a cookout to honor Native American veterans at Stidham Union from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. The event brought students, staff, and community members together to recognize the service and sacrifices made by Native people who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. Guests enjoyed hotdogs, cheeseburgers, and cookies with water, all cooked by a Native American veteran who proudly served his country.

Inside Stidham Union, two walls were filled with photos of Native American veterans, including both Haskell alumni and other service members. Each picture displayed the veteran’s name, tribal affiliation, and military branch. Some of the faces belong to active service members who continue to carry the warrior spirit today. The display served as a powerful reminder of the long tradition of Native people answering the call to defend their land and people.

This event highlights the deep connection between Native identity and the values of bravery, community, and resilience. Native Americans have the highest per-capita rate of military service among all ethnic groups in the United States, a fact that reflects centuries of warrior tradition and cultural pride.

The cookout at Haskell wasn’t just for good free food, it was about honoring those who continue to protect and serve, while reminding younger generations that the warrior spirit still lives on strong within the HINU community.