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Code talker facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

A code talker was a person who was hired by the United States military during wartime to use a little-known language as a means of secret communication. The term is now usually known with United States service members during the world wars who used their knowledge of Native American languages.

About 400 to 500 Native Americans in the United States Marine Corps whose primary job was to transmit secret tactical messages.

The code talkers improved the speed of encryption and decryption of communications in front line operations during World War II.

Images for kids

  • Group of Choctaw soldiers holding American flag

    Choctaw soldiers in training in World War I for coded radio and telephone transmissions

  • Meskwaki Nation Congressional Gold Medal (front)

    Meskwaki Nation Congressional Gold Medal (front)

  • Navajo code talkers

    Navajo code talkers, Saipan, June 1944

  • Code talker memorial with etched words: "Navajo Indian Code Talkers USMC. Used their native language skills to direct US Marine Corps. Artillery fire during WWII in Pacific area. Japanese could not break code. Thus these early Americans exemplified the spirit of America's fighting men. Sponsored by: Disabled Veterans South Marion DAV#85 serving veterans and dependents." The memorial also includes the United States Marine Corps emblem.

    Code Talkers Monument Ocala, Florida Memorial Park

  • 2016 Native American Coin

    Code talkers are honored on the reverse of the 2016 Sacagawea dollar

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Code talker Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.