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Honoring Code Talker Alfred K. Newman

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Marine belongs to a special group of men that outwitted the enemy in the Pacific Theater during WWII

Staff Reports

WINDOW ROCK— President Russell Begaye offers his condolences to the family of Navajo Code Talker Alfred K. Newman, 94, who passed away this past Sunday.

“Navajo Code Talker Alfred Newman was a hero, and he stood amongst giants,” Begaye said. “We will be forever grateful for his contributions and bravery, as well as that of each and every one of our Navajo Code Talkers. They are national treasures.”

Mr. Newman enlisted with the United States Marine Corps on March 26, 1943, at Fort Wingate and became part of the 1st Battalion, 21st Marine Regiment, 3rd Division. According to his daughter, Cherylin Newman, he was honorably discharged on Dec. 30, 1945, with the rank of corporal.

Using Diné bizaad, Mr. Newman fought with his fellow Marines in the Bougainville Campaign, the Battle of Guam and the Battle of Iwo Jima.

“On the battlefields of the Pacific Theater, our language proved unbreakable,” Begaye said. “It was critical in protecting the lives of American soldiers, and to the success of the United States in World War II.”

In honor of Navajo Code Talker Alfred K. Newman, flags will be flown at half-staff on the day of the funeral.

After the war, Mr. Newman worked as an ammunition inspector at Fort Wingate. Then he moved to Kirtland and worked for a coal mining company until he retired after 25 years.

Mr. Newman was born in Rehoboth, N.M. and is Naanesht'ézhi Dine'é born for Tsi'naajinii. He is survived by his wife Betsy Eleanor. Together they were married for 69 years and had five children: Alfred Jr., Marvin, Cherylin, Donovan and Kevin.  

Arrangements for the funeral are still pending.

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