The Pentagon recently made significant alterations to its official website, removing a webpage dedicated to Ira Hayes, a Native American Marine renowned for his role in the iconic flag-raising at Iwo Jima in 1945. This photo, captured by Joe Rosenthal on February 23, 1945, is not only a legendary image but also a Pulitzer Prize winner. The photograph was later used as a model for the statue at the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Virginia. Meanwhile, the Pentagon also took down information on Native American code talkers, who played a crucial role in both world wars by using their tribal languages to send encrypted messages.
Ira Hayes was celebrated on the now-removed webpage as an example of valor and dedication. His participation in the Iwo Jima flag-raising has been labeled by the Pentagon as an "iconic image." The removal of this tribute has sparked discussions about the Pentagon's decision-making process regarding historical military commemorations.
Additionally, the removal of articles about Native American code talkers has drawn attention. These individuals were instrumental during both world wars by encoding their native languages with word substitutions to further secure communications. During World War II, more than 400 Navajo were part of this program. The Choctaw language's use in World War I was notably effective, prompting Germany and Japan to send students to the US post-war to study Native American languages.
While these pages were removed, the Pentagon restored a webpage celebrating the 442nd Regimental Combat Team. This unit of Japanese American soldiers became the most decorated unit from World War II. In a statement reflecting the significance of this move, the Pentagon expressed satisfaction in highlighting these soldiers' bravery.
"The 442nd Regimental Combat team holds an honored place in Army History, and we are pleased to republish an article that highlights the brave soldiers," – The Pentagon
However, the removal of Maj Gen Charles Calvin Rogers' page has also raised questions. Rogers, a Black Medal of Honor recipient, served valiantly in Vietnam. His exclusion from the current military web presence adds to the concerns surrounding recent website changes.