A tribal veterans ceremony was held on the 14th floor of the Nebraska State Capitol on Thursday, November 12. The one hour program sponsored by the Nebraska Commission on Indian Affairs honored Nebraska’s tribal veterans and gave special recognition to the contributions of women veterans. Representatives of each of Nebraska’s four federally recognized tribes spoke at the event which featured songs, drumming and a Native Honor Guard. Governor Dave Heineman was the featured speaker at the event, and also presented admiralships in the Great Nebraska Navy to three female World War II veterans honored at the ceremony. Following the governor’s presentations, representatives of the women’s tribes presented each of the veterans with a star quilt in honor of their service.

World War II Veterans Honored:
Annie E. Phillips is a member of the Omaha tribe and her Omaha name is “GthedoNshtewiN” which means “Hawk that knows its own mind.” She enlisted in the Women’s Army Corp in 1941. Annie was released on a honorable medical discharge on in 1942.

Regina Lowry Littlewolf is a member of the Winnebago tribe. She joined the Women’s Army Corp and served from 1944 thru 1947.

Genevieve May Lowry Johnson is a member of the Winnebago tribe. She joined the U.S. Navy WAVES and served from 1945 through 1946.

It is well recognized that, historically, Native Americans have the highest record of service per capita when compared to other ethnic groups. At this time there are nearly 190,000 Native American military veterans in the United States. This Nebraska event served to honor all Native veterans for their long history of proud service to their country and their tribes.

This event is part of the Indian Commission’s observance of Native American Heritage Month and also serves as an opportunity to display the tribal flags of the four Nebraska tribes (Omaha, Santee Sioux, Ponca and Winnebago). These flags are being flown on the 14th floor the entire month of November in recognition of Native American month. The ultimate goal is for the four flags to be flown year around in the State Capitol.
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