Navajo Hopi Honor Riders

Veterans Day Ceremony at Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial
2022-11-05 11:00 - 12:00 (America/Phoenix)
La Jolla, CA – The Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial will honor the Navajo Code Talkers through a live in-person and virtual tribute event on Sat., Nov. 5, 2022 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. (PDT) streamed right here on the Mt Soledad Website.
Our keynote speaker will be U.S. Marine Brig. Gen. James A. Ryans, Assistant Division Commander, 1st Marine Division. He previously served as a Commanding Officer at the company and battalion levels and has deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan.
We are excited to honor the legacy of Navajo Code Talkers on this year’s Veterans Day. The first class of 29 Navajo code talker U.S. Marine recruits completed initial training in 1942 and these men developed a unique military code using their mostly unwritten language, and were placed in a guarded room until this task was completed. Eventually, more than 400 code talkers would serve in the U.S. Armed Services with 12 still listed as missing in action (MIA) today. Despite their heroic contributions during World War II, American Indian code talkers had to keep their work secret until 1968. While there was some recognition in the 1970s and 1980s, it wasn’t until 2001 when Congressional Gold Medals were awarded to the Navajo and other code talkers. Regan Hawthorne, CEO of the Navajo Code Talkers Museum will be in attendance and one of our guest speakers.
https://soledadmemorial.org
See less

Funeral escort for US Army SPC4 Andrew Kelly Jr on 10/21
2022-10-21 10:00 - 12:30
St. Michaels, Az – The family of US Army SPC4 Andrew Kelly Jr. humbly requesting a funeral escort on Friday, October 21, 2022.

STAGING LOCATION: 10:00am DST at Summit Funeral home, St Michaels, Az
KSU: 10:30am DST

DESTINATION: Family Plot in Sanders, Az. Gravesite service at 12:00pm DST

US Army SPC4 Andrew Kelly Jr clans are Honágháahnii (One-walks-around clan), born for Tsé deeshgizhnii (Rock Gap People), maternal grandfather is Naakai (Mexican) and paternal grandfather is T ł ‘ízí lání (Manygoats clan).

Andrew was a family man, loved his children and grandchildren deeply. He had five daughters and two sons, 17 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. He had seven siblings and is the third oldest in his family.

Andrew enlisted into the US Army on August 7, 1969, he succeeded in the US Army 1st Air Cavalry Division and served as an Army Medic with the rank of SPC4. While he served his country proudly, he also earned a number of medals and awards; the Silver Star, Bronze Star with combat V, Purple Heart, two Air Medals, Army Commendation Medal with combat V, National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and also the Air Assault Badge and Combat Infantry Badge.

On June 7, 2022, Andrew received the keys to his new hogan home from the Navajo Nation Veterans Administration in Tuba City, Az.

On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family of US Army SPC4 Andrew Kelly Jr. He will be deeply missed by the biker community, he whole-heartly advocated for all veterans. Rest in peace soldier.

Contact: Sarah Kelly (daughter)

(Map: Family plot in Sanders, AZ. 3.5 miles north from Bashas in Sanders, Az. on Indian Rte. 9405)

Run to the Rez
2022-10-15 10:00 - 14:00
San Carlos, Az~ #RuntotheRez 2022, a good turn out to honor all veterans in the Armed Forces We thank you for your service 10/14-10/15/22.

Funeral escort for US PFC Army Victor Joe McCabe on 10/3
2022-10-03 11:00 - 13:30
FLAGSTAFF, AZ – The family of US PFC Army Victor Joe McCabe humbly requesting a funeral escort on Monday, October 3, 2022.

STAGING LOCATION: 11:00am MST, Norvel Owens Mortuary, 914 E. Route 66, Flagstaff, Az
KSU: 11:30am MST
DESTINATION: Flagstaff Citizen Veterans Cemetery

US PFC Army Victor Joe McCabe is from Leupp, Az. His clans are Yucca Fruit born for Towering House. He enlisted into the US Army in June 1956 and was honorably discharged. He had strong Christian values and shared his faith with others. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family of US PFC Army Victor Joe McCabe. Rest in peace soldier.

Contact: Bertha Begay (niece)

Funeral escort for USMC CPL Vincent Smith Sr.
2022-09-16 09:00 - 11:30
GALLUP, NM – The family of USMC CPL Vincent Smith Sr. humbly requesting a funeral escort on Friday, September 16, 2022.

STAGING LOCATION: 9:00am at Rollie’s Mortuary in Gallup New Mexico
KSU: 11:00am
DESTINATION: Gallup State Veterans Cemetary

USMC CPL Vincent Smith Sr. was from Mexican Springs New Mexico, he was the type of person that had a lot of love for his family and friends. He cared for everybody that he knew. He grew up in Mexican Springs, did his education at Gallup High School. After completing his education, he enlisted into the military to become a Marine for two years. He enlisted on August 20th, 1969 and was discharged on August 20th, 1971. He had 4 sisters, 2 are deceased and 1 brother whom is also deceased.

On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family of USMC CPL Vincent Smith Sr. Rest in peace marine.

Contact: Shirley Earle (niece)

Funeral escort for Navajo Code Talker, USMC PFC Samuel F. Sandoval
2022-08-03 11:00 - 11:30
FARMINGTON, NM – The family of Navajo Code Talker, USMC PFC Samuel F. Sandoval is requesting a funeral escort on Wednesday August 3, 2022.
STAGING: 11:00am Ryder Chapel, Navajo Methodist Mission School, Farmington, NM
KSU: 11:30 am
DESTINATION: 12:00pm Memory Gardens Cemetery, Farmington, NM
ROUTE: see route map below
Funeral service will be conducted for immediate family only. A public memorial will be on Saturday, August 6, 2022, location to be announced. Thank you for understanding and cooperating.
Navajo Code Talker Samuel F. Sandoval, was 98 years old. He was Zuni Clan and born for Red Cheek Clan, he was originally from Kimbeto, NM, near Chaco Canyon. After graduating from school, he enlisted into USMC on March 26, 1943 and after completing basic training he spent 20 weeks at Camp Pendleton, California, learning the Navajo code used in South Pacific Theater. He served in the Marine Corps from 1943-1946. He served in five combat tours, including Guadalcanal, Bougainville, Guam, Peleliu, and Okinawa.
In 2001, Sandoval received the Congressional Silver Medal from President George W. Bush. The 2012 documentary “Naz Bah Ei Bijei: Heart of a Warrior” chronicles Sandoval’s life story and role as a Code Talker.
On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to his wife, Malula Sandoval and family. We thank you for your service. You will never be forgotten. Rest in peace marine.
Contact: Clarissa Bowman (niece)

Funeral escort for US Army CPL Harry John Nez
2022-06-21 11:00 - 12:00
TUBA CITY, AZ – The family of US Army CPL Harry John Nez humbly requesting a funeral escort on Tuesday June 21, 2022.
STAGING: 11:30am Tuba City Full Gospel Church, Tuba City, Az.
KSU: 12:00pm
DESTINATION: Flagstaff Citizens Cemetery, Flagstaff, Az.
US Army CPL Harry John Nez was a Korean War veteran, he served 3 years 5 months 26 days. He was over sea for 1 year 16 days, Korean Conflict 12/1948 to 5/1952. He received Korean Service Medal with 3 Bronze Service Stars. He was a Police Officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant, also the Tuba City Chapter official: vice-president and president. Tuba City District 15 School Security Officer, retired. He will be dearly missed by his family and friends.
On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family of US Army CPL Harry John Nez. Rest in peace soldier.
Contact: Calvin J. Nez Sr. (son)

Funeral escort for US Army PFC Billie Sheperd
2022-06-20 07:30 - 09:30
ST. MICHAELS, AZ – The family of US Army PFC Billie Sheperd humbly requesting a funeral escort on Monday June 20, 2022.

STAGING: 7:30am Summit Funeral Home, St. Michaels, Az
KSU: 8:00am
DESTINATION: Family burial plot in Ganado
ROUTE: West on HWY 264, south on C428, west on C292 (near Ganado airport)

US Army PFC Billie Sheperd was born on May 20, 1928 in Ganado, AZ to the Tse Njikini clan. As a youth, he worked for the railroad. He entered the military in September 1950. He was married to his wife Jane Sheperd on Feb 17, 1951. His military service during the Korean War was with CO G 34th INF REGT in Okinawa where he would then hop from Island to Island after landing to reach Korea below the 38th parallel. He was wounded by shrapnel the size of a thumbnail during battle. He received the Army of Occupation Medal (Japan) and he received a change of company to the rifle company. He was discharged from the Army in August 1952.

He came home to Ganado Arizona to his wife and young son William. He worked for the Ganado Unified School District for 34 years as a Bus Driver and a Janitor. During that time, he and his wife had 3 additional children (Marie, Wilbert and Tony) and adopted their youngest son Larry. Billie was a practicing hataalli. He blessed and prayed for family and friends. His love of healing spilled over to singing with a Song and Dance group as well as attending numerous ceremonies to help with singing. Billie leaves this earth to be united with his sons William and Tony who preceded him in death. He leaves behind his wife, his daughter, his 2 remaining sons and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren.

On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family of US Army PFC Billie Sheperd. Rest in peace soldier.

Contact: Marie Jim (Daughter)

Funeral escort for USMC CPL Errol Al Barlow
2022-06-17 09:30 - 11:00
TUBA CITY, AZ – The family of USMC CPL Errol Al Barlow humbly requesting a funeral escort on Friday June 17, 2022.

STAGING: 9:30am Valley Ridge Mortuary, Tuba City, Az.
KSU: 10:00am
DESTINATION: Family burial plot near Shonto Preparatory School

(motorcycles will stop at cattleguard, where pavement ends)

USMC CPL Errol Al Barlow was born December 13, 1978 in Tuba City Az. He was the 3rd child of Allen and Babs Barlow. He graduated from Flagstaff High School and enlisted into the Marine Corps right after graduation. He did 2 tours while in active duty. He loved camping, hiking and helping others. Errol had a huge sense of humor. He was always laughing or making others laugh. He liked playing phone pranks on his sisters. He leaves behind 2 daughters, Layla and Isabelle Barlow. He will be deeply missed by many.

On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family of USMC CPL Errol Al Barlow. Rest in peace marine.

Contact: Jane Morgan (sister)

Funeral escort for SGT Raymond R. Graymountain
2022-06-14 09:30 - 10:30
ST. MICHAELS, AZ – The family of SGT Raymond R. Graymountain(Army & USMC) is humbly requesting a funeral escort on Tuesday June 14, 2022.

STAGING: 9:30am Summit Funeral Home, St. Michaels, Az
KSU: 10:00am
DESTINATION: 10:30am Graveside service at family plot, Sawmill, Az

SGT Raymond R. Graymountain served both Army and USMC for a total of 5.5 years, he was in the Vietnam War; receiving numerous medals, citations and ribbons. He carried on his legacy courageously with dignity that inspired following generations.

On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family of SGT Raymond R. Graymountain(Army & USMC). Rest in peace.

Contact: Carmelita Graymountain

Andrew Kelly's house warming party
2022-06-12 14:00 - 16:30
Tuba City, AZ – Andrew Kelly’s house warming party today at 2:00pm. Near fairgrounds by rodeo arena

Annual Lori Piestewa Navajo Hopi Honor Run
2022-06-11 07:30 - 14:00
June 11, 2022 from Window Rock, Az to Flagstaff, Az the residence of Piestewa.
STAGING: 7:30am Window Rock Veterans Memorial Park
KSU: 8:30am

PRINT SCHEDULE for 6/11/22

Navajo Nation Memorial Day
2022-05-30 09:30 - 11:30
Window Rock, Az- Navajo Nation Memorial Day on May 30, 2022 Monday.
Staging: 9:30am Quality Inn, Window Rock
KSU: 9:45am
Destination: Window Rock Veterans Memorial Park. 10:00am-11:00am Rememberance Ceremony agenda below.

Funeral escort for USMC CPL Aaron Smith
2022-05-25 11:00 - 12:00
FLAGSTAFF, AZ – The family of USMC CPL Aaron Smith is humbly requesting a funeral escort on Wednesday May 25, 2022.

STAGING: 11:00am San Francisco de Asis Church, 1600 E Rte 66, Flagstaff, AZ
KSU: 11:30am

DESTINATION: Flagstaff Citizens Cemetery

US Marine Corps CPL Aaron Smith served 4 years (1997-2001) with 1st Marine Division, Camp Pendleton, CA. Aaron is the son of Andrew and Pauline (Dohi) Smith. He was born of the Tódich’ii’nii clan, born for Hashk’ąą hadzohi, his maternal clan is Áshįįhi, and his paternal clan is T ł ‘ízí lání.

Aaron has the characteristics of Honor, Courage, Commitment, Integrity, Loyalty, and Unselfishness. His passion for helping and serving others led him to choose a career in law enforcement.

Aaron’s ambitions led him to obtaining an Associate’s degree in Law Enforcement Technology and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Justice Administration.

He has always been a loving and supportive father and husband. A son, brother, friend, and most proudest title, Cheii.

On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family of USMC CPL Aaron Smith. Rest in peace marine.

Contact: Joni Smith (spouse)

Funeral escort for USMC CPL Kee Joe Benally Jr
2022-05-13 10:30 - 11:30
GALLUP, NM – The family of USMC CPL Kee Joe Benally Jr., is humbly requesting a funeral escort on Friday May 13, 2022.

STAGING: 11:30am Rollie Mortuary Gallup, NM
KSU: 12:30 pm
DESTINATION: 1:00 pm final resting place Gallup State Veterans Cemetery,
Gallup, NM

Kee was 52 years old. Honágháahnii and born for Tódich’ii’nii, Kinyaa’áanii(Cheii) and Dibe lizhini(Nalii) clans.
He was born 09/29/1969 and passed away on 04/29/2022. Survivors include his daughter Tesla Benally; mother Betty Benally; brother Irvin Benally; Sister Kathy Benally and 5 grandchildren. Benally was preceded in death by his father Kee Joe Benally Sr.
He joined the USMC on 09/22/1987 to 09/29/1991.
A proud USMC Veteran of the Persian Gulf War.

On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family of USMC CPL Kee Joe Benally Jr. Rest in peace marine.

Funeral escort for US Army CPL Kee John Manning
2022-04-29 09:30 - 10:30
GANADO, AZ – The family of US Army CPL Kee John Manning is humbly requesting a funeral escort on Friday April 29, 2022.

STAGING: 10:30am Ganado Presbyterian Church
KSU: 11:00am
DESTINATION: Fort Defiance Veterans Cemetery
ROUTE: Hwy 264 East towards Window Rock turn left on Indian Rt 12

US Army CPL Kee John Manning served in the Vietnam War Champaign he served 3 years with 50th Transportation Company, 5th Army, Fort Carson, Colorado. He was raised in Ganado, Arizona. He attended a Boarding School in Utah and attended Ganado Missionary High School where he played football and graduated, he attended UNM- Gallup majoring in Business. A husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.

On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family of US Army CPL Kee John Manning. Rest in peace soldier.

NHHR meeting on 4/25
2022-04-25 18:00 - 19:30 | Comfort Suites, Gallup, Nm, 3940 E. Highway 66, Gallup, NM, 87301, United States
Navajo Hopi Honor Riders meeting on April 25, 2022 Monday
Location: Conference room at Gallup Comfort Suites, 3340 E. Hwy 66
Time: 6:00pm-7:30pm DST
All volunteers and riders welcome to attend and help plan the annual honor ride of 6/11/22

Zoom will also be available for anyone not available to attend

Welcome home escort for US Army SGT Rodney Todacheenie
2022-04-23 09:00 - 11:00
HOLBROOK, AZ – Welcome home escort for US Army SGT Rodney Todacheenie on Saturday April 23, 2022.
STAGING: 9:00am MST Holbrook Truck Stop, Holbrook Az
KSU: 10:00am MST
DESTINATION: Leupp Chapter House, Leupp, Az. (92 mi)
ROUTE: North on State Rt 77 towards Indian Wells, west onto Indian Rte 15 to Leupp, Az.
Welcome home celebration for US Army SGT Rodney Todacheenie, 30, from Grand Falls, Az. Alpha Co, 8th Engineer 2nd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division. 12N Horizontal Engineer. One deployment “Operation Atlantic Resolve” Europe 2019-2020. Stationed at Fort Hood, Kileen, TX. Honorably discharged and coming home to wife Vanissa Todacheenie and 5 month old son.
On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we would like to thank Todacheenie for his service and welcome him home to his community.

Contact: Violet White
vidawhite44@yahoo.com

STEAMBOAT SPRING FESTIVAL 4/15
2022-04-15 10:00 - 14:00
Steamboat Springs, AZ – Friday, April 15, 2022 STEAMBOAT SPRING FESTIVAL Walk Thru Event Come & Celebrate Easter with us from 10am-2pm. Navajo Hopi Honor Riders will assist with Posting of Colors & Invocation @ 8:00 am
**200 Easter Baskets will be given to Kids (ages 4-11 yrs old) (Must be Present)
**50 Easter Baskets will be given to Elderly & Veterans. ( Must be present)
Damon Boxing/ Mobile D.J ( Entertainment)
Navajo Hopi Honor Riders,
Colorado Creating Changes
C.E.R.T Raynard Kieyaoni,
Medicine Wheel Riders, MMIW
Open Registration is available, call the Chapter (928)736-2631.
Thank you again for so much support from all over for contributing to the Easter baskets for children, elderly and veterans in the Steamboat community.
Email : wheelergm70@gmail.com

Funeral escort for US ARMY SSGT Oscar Doctor Sr.
2022-04-11 09:45 - 11:00
Flagstaff, Az – The family of US ARMY SSGT Oscar Doctor Sr., is humbly requesting a funeral escort on Monday, April 11, 2022.

STAGING: 9:45am Lozano’s Flagstaff Mortuary & Crematory Flagstaff, Az. 2545 North 4th Street, Flagstaff, Az. 86004
KSU: 10:15 am
DESTINATION: 143117 Veterans Drive, Bellemont, Az 86015

ROUTE: South on 4th Street. West on Butler Ave; on ramp to I-40 West Bound to Bellemont exit.

US Army SSGT Oscar Doctor Sr., was a Army and Arizona National Guard Veteran who served 15 years. Oscar Doctor Sr., of Flagstaff, Tolani Lake, and Kayenta, Az was a hard working, outgoing, funny, humble, respectful Navajo Veteran.

He was very community and civic oriented throughout his life of 90 years. Born in Kayenta, Az he served in the US Army in Bamberg, Germany as a young man, returning to Flagstaff to start a family. He worked for numerous years at the Army Depot in Bellemont, Az as a ammunition handler and as a member of the National Guard. After his time at NAD, he began a long career as a business agent/laborer for Laborers’ Union Local 383 in Flagstaff, working on many construction projects and creating lifelong friendships throughout the state.

Oscar retired in the early 1900’s in Tolani Lake, Az, where he was actively involved with the local Senior Center and Veterans Communities. His family will always remember his stories and historical knowledge of growing up on the Navajo Nation.

On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family US Army SSGT Oscar Doctor Sr. Rest in peace.

Funeral escort for US MARINE CORPS CPL Dan Y. Begay
2022-04-09 08:00 - 11:30
Tuba City,Az – The family of US MARINE CORPS CPL Dan Y. Begay is humbly requesting a funeral escort on Saturday, April 09, 2022.

STAGING: 7:30am Valley Ridge Mortuary, Tuba City, Az
KSU: 8:00 am
DESTINATION: Second Mesa Culture Center, Second Mesa, Az.
ROUTE: East Hwy 264 from Tuba City to Second Mesa.

US MARINE CORPS CPL Dan Y. Begay was a Vietnam War Veteran serving from December 1966 to December 1970, a Purple Heart Recipient and a former Community Development Official of the Forest Lake Chapter.
He was born of the Tse deshgizhnii clan, and born for Nakai dine’e clan. Born in Hardrock, Az and to be laid to rest in Forest Lake, Az.

We will celebrate his life and we will dearly miss him.

On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family US Marine Corps CPL Dan Y. Begay, Rest in peace.

Contact: Releana Begay (daughter)
Email: releanaII@gmail.com
928-225-6709

Funeral escort for US Marine LCpl Gilbert Charley, Sr
2022-04-05 07:45 - 09:00
Tse Bonito, NM – The family of US Marine LCpl Gilbert Charley, Sr. is humbly requesting a funeral escort on Tuesday, April 5, 2022.

STAGING: 7:45am Silver Creek Mortuary, Tse Bonito, NM
KSU: 8:00am
DESTINATION: Greasewood Springs Cemetery, Greasewood, AZ.
ROUTE: Hwy 264 from Tse Bonito, NM to Navajo Route 15 to Greasewood Springs Cemetery, Greasewood Springs, Az.

USMC LCpl Gilbert Charley, Sr., was a very kind hearted, disciplined son, father, nephew, uncle, great grandfather, nali, spouse, but most of all, he was a one of kind loving compassionate grandpa and dad. He made every effort to always be involved with the community, the students, and his grandkids as a mentor, encouraging and guiding them everyday reminding them life is tough, but not to let the trials keep them down; to continue to move forward and grow in every way, in all aspects of education, sports, and as individuals; to continue to be the best you are and to be the best you can be for yourselves and our family. He was well known within Greasewood Springs Community to include the surrounding communities through his involvement with the children he taught, mentored and watched over them as they grew along side his own children. He was employed with the Greasewood Springs Community School for over 30 years in both the Residential Hall and Transportation Department. He also sponsored many fundraising activities for the students at the School with basketball, softball, pool tournaments and Halloween carnivals.

Gilbert Charley, Sr., is survived by his significant other Laura Keyonnie, his children; sons Stacey Smith, Gilroy Charley, Gilbert Charley Jr., and daughter Kimberly Charley-Clarke.

On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family of USMC LCpl Gilbert Charley Sr. Rest in peace.

Contact: Lindsay Charley (daughter in-law)
Email: linnyg86@gmail.com

Shiprock, NM - 5th Annual National Vietnam War Veterans Day
2022-04-02 07:00 - 17:00
Shiprock, NM – April 2, 202, Saturday, 5th Annual National Vietnam War Veterans Day “Silent Warriors of Vietnam.”
0800hours- Parade Line up at Shiprock Chapter parking lot
0900hours- Parade Commence Northern Navajo Veterans Admin. Trail ride & motorcycle ride, Posting of Colors, Shiprock Chapter Veterans Organization speeches, entertainment and lunch served. Navajo Hopi Honor Riders invited to ride their ironhorses. Volunteers welcome, contact Lloyd Begaye 505-360-0406.

Piestewa Fallen Heroes Sunrise Memorial
2022-03-23 05:30 - 11:00
Phoenix,AZ – Piestewa Fallen Heroes Sunrise Memorial on March 23, 2022, Wednesday, 6:30am-8:30am.
STAGING: 5:30am Navajo-Hopi Honor Riders meet at the Best Western Inn Suites, 1615 E. Northern, Phoenix, AZ 85020 to help organize honored guests and POWs; at 5:45 a.m, escorting honored guests to the Lincoln Heights Christian Church Parking Lot, 2121 E. Lincoln. 5:50 AM Church parking lot other honored guests/Gold Star families may join the group.
KSU 6:05 a.m. PGR and Navajo-Hopi Honor Riders start escorting the group from the church to the Ocotillo Ramada. Phoenix Police will assist with traffic control. Contact Bobby Martin for staging details and contact Ernest azforPiestewa@gmail.com for event details.

NHHR meeting
2022-02-20 14:00 - 16:30 | Comfort Suites, Gallup, Nm, 3940 E. Highway 66, Gallup, NM, 87301, United States
Conference room at Gallup Comfort Suites, 3340 E. Hwy 66.
Time: 2:00pm-4:00pm
or attend via ZOOM (see link below)
Navajo Hopi Honor Riders is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Time: Feb 20, 2022 02:00 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada)

Funeral escort for US Navy veteran Wesley Simpson Sr.
2022-02-20 08:30 - 09:30
KAYENTA, AZ – The family of US Navy veteran Wesley Simpson Sr. is humbly requesting a funeral escort on Sunday February 20, 2022.
STAGING: 8:30am Hwy 160 & Route 59 junction, 9 miles east of Kayenta
KSU: 9:00am
DESTINATION: 12 miles north of Kayenta on Hwy 163 milepost 405, Narrow Canyon road. (pavement ends, family will continue in vehicles to burial site)
US Navy veteran Wesley Simpson Sr, 75, he is Tł’ízí łání (Many Goats Clan) and born for Táchii’nii (Red Running into the Water People Clan). His maternal grandfather is Tódich’ii’nii (Bitter Water Clan) and his paternal grandfather is Kiyaa’áanii (Towering House Clan). He was born on July 3, 1946 and was originally from Narrow Canyon, Ariz.
US Navy E-3 Wesley Simpson Sr. served his country from 1966 to 1970, he served on the USS Paul Revere during the Vietnam war. He earned the Vietnam service medal 67′ & 69′ and the National Defense Medal. Mr. Simpson embodied the values of America; grit, dedication, service and valor. When he joined the military after high school, he did so with the intention of protecting our nation and demonstrating his selfless act of service. He also worked for the Kayenta Unified School District for 38 years and 13 years at the Oljato Chapter. He was the commander of the Oljato Veterans Orginization. Mr. Simpson was a member of the Western Intertribal Gourd Society. We
He made this world a better place to live in and gave hope to all Native American fathers out there to be the best DAD they can be. ANCHORS AWAY TO OUR HERO.
Survivors include his wife, Elsie Simpson, their five children Bertilde Bitseedy, Phyllisia Simpson, Philbert Simpson, Wesley Jr. Simpson, Emmerling Simpson, and 12 grandchildren.
On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family of US Navy veteran Wesley Simpson Sr. Rest in peace seaman.
Contact: Phyllisia Cly (daughter)
phyllisia.cly@gmail.com

Funeral escort for US Army SPC Mattie Adakai
2022-02-19 13:00 - 13:30
GALLUP, NM – The family of US Army SPC Mattie Adakai is humbly requesting a funeral escort on Saturday February 19, 2022.
STAGING: 1:00pm Rollie Mortuary, 401 E. Nizhoni Blvd, Gallup, NM
KSU: 1:45pm
DESTINATION: Gallup City Cemetery, 3517 Camino de los Caballos, Gallup, NM
Funeral service will begin at 12:00pm for immediate family. Services will be conducted in accordance with CDC and Navajo Nation Covid-19 guidelines to protect all friends and family, thank you for understanding and cooperating
US Army SPC Mattie Adakai served 23 years in the Army.
“MY MOTHER WAS A STRONG WILLED AND AN INDEPENDENT YOUNG CHILD FLED FROM THE BUREAU OF INDIAN AFFAIRS OFFICIALS WHEN THEY CAME SEARCHING FOR CHILDREN TO BE TAKEN AWAY FROM THEIR FAMILIES TO ATTEND FULL TIME BOARDING SCHOOLS. SHE HAS INFLUENCED OUR LIVES IN A MAGNITUDE OF WAYS BY SACRIFICING THAT PART OF HER LIFE. SHE WAS MOST FLUENT IN THE NAVAJO LANGUAGE AND ONLY SPOKE NAVAJO UNTIL HER LAST DAY. THIS HAS ALLOWED HER CHILDREN TO REMAIN FLUENT IN THE NAVAJO LANGUAGE AND ALLOWED US TO RETAIN AND RESPECT OUR NAVAJO CULTURE, TRADITIONS AND LANGUAGE. SHIMÁ (MY MOTHER) REMINDED US ALL TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE PERSEVERANCE OF OUR ANCESTORS CONSISTENTLY, DAILY. SHIMA WAS A WOMAN WHO WAS A RESEMBLANCE OF MY STRONG WILLED SHIMÁSANI (MY GRANDMOTHER). MY MOTHER AND GRANDMOTHER WERE TWO OF KIND; WOMEN WHO WERE RAISED TO BE WISE BEYOND THEIR YEARS AND TO BE TOUGH AS NAILS THROUGHOUT THEIR LIFE. THE NAVAJO FAMILY SYSTEM IS A SOCIETY BASED ON A STRONG MATRIARCH. WHEN YOU ARE BORN YOU ARE IDENTIFIED FIRST BY YOUR MATERNAL CLAN THAT IS WHO YOU ARE THROUGHOUT YOUR LIFE. YOUR PATERNAL CLAN IS SECOND AND IT IS WHO YOU ARE BORN INTO.
MY MOTHER REMAINED A WIDOW SINCE OUR FATHER LEFT THIS WORLD IN 1986. SHE REMAINED LOYAL TO THE PATRIOTISM THAT WAS INSTILLED BY MY FATHER JACK ADAKAI AND TOLD US MANY STORIES OF HIS TIME AWAY FROM HER AND HER FIRST CHILD RAY ADAKAI WHEN OUR FATHER WAS WORKING ON THE RAILROAD. SHE WAS IMPARTING TO US TO BE THANKFUL FOR THE SACRIFICE THAT OUR NAVAJO MILITARY MEN FOUGHT FOR DURING WWII AND WHEN OUR NAVAJO PEOPLE WORKED ON BUILDING THE ATCHISON, SANTA FE AND TOPEKA RAILWAY. SHE REMINDED US THAT OUR NAVAJO LANGUAGE WAS A POWERFUL FORCE WHICH HELPED OUR UNITED STATED TO WIN IN WAR. SHE WOULD EMPHASIZE THE IMPORTANCE OF OUR NAVAJO LANGUAGE AND TAUGHT US TO CONTINUE TO LEARN IT AND USE IT DAILY. SHE WOULD INSTILL IN US TO BECOME RESILIENT, INDEPENDENT, STRONG WILLED, HARD WORKING, HUMBLE AND PROUD NAVAJO PEOPLE.
THE ADAKAI CHILDREN WILL NEVER FORGET WHERE AND HOW WE HAVE GROWN UP IN A WORLD OF COLORFUL CULTURE AND SPEAKING DINEH BIZAAD AS OUR FIRST SPOKEN LANGUAGE AND A MENTALITY OF FAMILY FIRST: SAGE AND YUCCA PLANTS WERE PLENTIFUL, WE HAD NO RUNNING WATER-OUR FAMILY HAULED WATER EVERY WEEK, WE HAD HUGE FAMILY GATHERINGS, EVERY NOW AND THEN ACHII (A NAVAJO DELICACY AND AN ACQUIRED TASTE), TORTILLAS WITH EVERY MEAL, OCCASIONALLY FRIED BREAD, GREEN CHILI STEW, TAMALES-GREEN CHILI-RED CHILI, WOOD HAULING IN THE WINTER, PINON PICKING IN THE SUMMERS, GROWING OUR OWN FOOD AND GATHERING THE FALL HARVEST-CORN-SQUASH-BEANS-WATERMELONS-PUMPKINS, UNFORGIVING WINTERS WITH THE WOOD BURNING STOVE TO WARM OUR SMALL FAMILY HOME, MUDDY RESERVATION ROADS THAT LEFT MUD RACKS FOR DAYS, HAND ME DOWN CLOTHES, AND OF COURSE RAISING LIVESTOCK AND THE BUTCHERING WE DID FOR OUR FAMILY SUSTENANCE, AND LASTLY THE SILVER JEWELRY WORK OUR FATHER DID IN HIS LAST YEARS AS INCOME FOR HIS FAMILY. GOD REST HIS SOUL; HIS COMMITMENT AND DEDICATION TO SERVE AS A COMBAT SOLDIER LIVES WITHIN OUR HEARTS AND MIND. HIS APTITUDE AS A SILVER SMITH AND HIS ARTISTIC FLAIR OF TRADITIONAL DESIGNS REFLECTS IN THE SILVER WORK WE WEAR TODAY.
MY MOTHER AND MY FATHER. LOVED THE SILVER AND TURQUOISE OF THE NAVAJO TRADITIONAL SILVERSMITHS WE ARE PROUD OF OUR MOTHER AND FATHER WHO TAUGHT US THE NAVAJO SILVERSMITHING SKILLS-OUR FAMILY TRADE.
SHIMÁ WAS AN AVID SILVERSMITH AS WELL AS A SEAMSTRESS WHO CREATED HER OWN CLOTHES AND HER CHILDREN’S CLOTHES, SHE WAS SELF-TAUGHT AS A SEAMSTRESS, SHE ALSO CREATED NAVAJO WOVEN RUGS THAT SHE LEFT FOR HER CHILDREN. HER TALENT TO LEARN THESE SKILLS AND CRAFTS REMAINS AMAZING TO HER CHILDREN. WE HAVE THE SAME INSTINCTS THAT SHE HAD TO LEARN, CREATE ART AND TO APPRECIATE THE OUTDOORS.
SHE TAUGHT US SKILLS SUCH AS RAISING LIVESTOCK, CULTIVATING A HARVEST FIELD, GAINING VALUABLE NAVAJO KNOWLEDGE BY PATIENTLY LISTENING TO OUR ELDERS, SHE ENCOURAGED US TO BE CREATIVE IN ART AND TO ENJOY THE SIMPLE SOLITUDE OF WATCHING THE SUNRISES AND SUNSETS, SHE HELPED US TO APPRECIATE THE HIKING AND ROCK CLIMBS OF OUR LANDS. SHE WOULD SAY LOUDLY THE NAVAJO NAMES OF THE BIRDS AND ANIMALS WE HAD SEEN THROUGH OUT OUR LIVES AND TO APPRECIATE THESE CREATURES. SHE TAUGHT US HOW TO PRAY AND TO BELIEVE IN FAITH. SHE WILL ALWAYS REMAIN OUR MATRIARCH.” (written by her daughter)
On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family of US Army SPC Mattie Adakai. Rest in peace.
Contact: Mattie Adakai (daughter)
mati.adakai@gmail.com

Funeral service for USAF E3 Karen Lynn Yazzie
2022-02-11 10:00 - 12:00
GALLUP, NM – The family of USAF E3 Karen Lynn Yazzie is humbly requesting a funeral escort on Friday February 11, 2022.
STAGING: 10:45am Cope Memorial Chapel, Gallup, NM
KSU: 11:15am
DESTINATION: Tohatchi Community Cemetary, Tohatchi, NM
Funeral service will begin at 10:00am for immediate family. Services will be conducted in accordance with CDC and Navajo Nation Covid-19 guidelines to protect all friends and family, thank you for understanding and cooperating
USAF E3 Karen Lynn Yazzie, 48, served 5 years in the Air Force, she graduated from Tohatchi High School, she was a mother of three; Kobe Yazzie, Dron Jones and Maya Lynn Flores, husband Luis Flores. Her parents are Burton and Susie Yazzie from Coyote Canyon, NM.
She worked for the US Postal Service as a supervisor in customer service for 10 years. She resided in Las Vegas, NV for 17 years and was born & raised in the Coyote Canyon.
On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family of USAF E3 Karen Lynn Yazzie. Rest in peace.
Contact: Kimberly Yazzie (sister)
kimberlyyazzie@hotmail.com

Funeral escort for USMC PVT Benjamin Stewart
2022-02-03 10:30 - 12:30
GALLUP, NM – The family of USMC PVT Benjamin Stewart is requesting an escort on February 3, 2022 Thursday.

STAGING: 10:30am Rollie Mortuary, 401 E. Nizhoni, Gallup, NM
KSU: 12:00pm
DESTINATION: Gallup Veterans Cemetery, Gallup, NM

USMC PVT Benjamin Stewart, 70, served his country for 4 years, he enlisted on June 25, 1970, one tour in Vietnam. Honorable discharge on December 12, 1974. Last duty assignment and major command: Supco, SupBn, 1st FSR, CamPen, CA 92055

On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family of USMC PVT Benjamin Stewart. Rest in peace marine.

Contact:Daryl.Stewart (son)
Daryl.Stewart@ihs.gov

Funeral escort for USMC CPL Donald Mahkewa Jr. on 1/31
2022-01-31 06:30 - 19:30
PARKER, AZ – The family of USMC CPL Donald Mahkewa Jr. is humbly requesting a funeral escort on Monday January 31, 2022.
STAGING: 6:00am Parker Funeral Home, 1704 S. Ocotillo Ave, Parker, Az 85344
KSU: 6:30am
DESTINATION: Parker Cemetery, 1314 W 11th St, Parker, Az (see map attached)
CPL Donald Mahkewa Jr. enlisted in the United States Marine Corp in 1968 in Kansas City, Missouri and Honorably discharged in 1971 in MCAS Yuma, Arizona. He is survived by his kids: Leith, Keah, Sabrina, Julian, Starlie and wife, Dawn Navasie. His MOS in the USMC was a Radio Telegraph Operator and completed the following training, Scuba School, Basic Airborne Course, Supporting Arms Oriented and Recondo Course. He was a decorated Vietnam War Veteran and served with the 3rd Force Recon and received the following awards and decorations:
National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal W/1*, Vietnam Campaign Medal w/device, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Unit citation w/ combat “V”, Good Conduct Medal, RVN Cross of Gallantry w/palm. CPL Donald Mahkewa Jr. passed in Phoenix, Arizona on January 27, 2022 and will be laid to rest at Parker Cemetery in Parker, Arizona on January 31, 2022 services will begin at 7:00 a.m.
On behalf of the Navajo Hopi Honor Riders, we send our condolences and prayers to the family of USMC CPL Donald Mahkewa Jr. Rest in peace marine.
Contact: Tiffany Johnson (daughter-in-law)
tiffany.johnson07@yahoo.com
