On Friday, August 14th, the Department of Arizona American Legion attended the Navajo Code Talker Day at Wesley Bolin Plaza in Phoenix. Darrell Bedoni kicked things off with several Native American songs on his flutes. Following the opening prayer the San Carlos Apache Veterans Association presented the colors and the singing of the National Anthem. There were several guest speakers and then they recognized Navajo Code Talker Thomas Begay who was at Iwo Jima where a handful of code talkers sent 800 messages to perfection. The Japanese were never able to break the code talkers messages. Ross Bergstresser, Arizona American Legion Department Commander, presented a wreath in partnership with the VFW. The color guard retrieved the colors to 21 gun salute and playing of taps. A very educational and moving ceremony all morning long. A salute to the Navajo Code Talkers.