Dave Bald Eagle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
David Bald Eagle
|
|
|---|---|
|
Waniyetu Opi
|
|
A photo of David Bald Eagle in 2003 By Phil Konstantin
|
|
| Lakota leader | |
| In office 1996–2016 |
|
| First Chief of the United Indigenous Nations of The Americas | |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
David William Beautiful Bald Eagle
April 8, 1919 Cheyenne River Indian Reservation, South Dakota |
| Died | July 22, 2016 (aged 97) Cheyenne River Indian Reservation, South Dakota |
| Resting place | Black Hills National Cemetery 44°22′13″N 103°28′28″W / 44.370389°N 103.474356°W |
| Spouses |
|
| Relations |
|
| Mother tongue | Lakota |
| Military career | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Years of service | 1936–1944 |
| Rank | Sergeant |
| Unit |
|
| Battles/wars | World War II: |
| Awards |  Silver Star medal (Anzio) |
David William Bald Eagle (born April 8, 1919 – died July 22, 2016) was a respected Lakota elder. He was known for many things, including being an actor, a soldier, a stuntman, and a musician. People often called him Chief David Beautiful Bald Eagle.
Contents
Who Was David Bald Eagle?
David Bald Eagle was born in a traditional tipi (a cone-shaped tent) on April 8, 1919. His birthplace was near Cherry Creek, on the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation in South Dakota. He was a member of the Lakota people.
His family had a strong history. David Bald Eagle was the grandson of two important Lakota warriors: White Bull and White Feather.
A Life of Adventure and Service
David Bald Eagle lived a very full and interesting life. He was involved in many different careers and adventures.
Serving His Country
He first joined the United States Army in the Fourth Cavalry. Later, during World War II, he joined the 82nd Airborne Division. This division was known as the "All American Division."
He fought bravely in important battles during the war. He was part of the Battle of Anzio in Italy, where he earned a Silver Star medal for his courage. He also took part in the D-Day invasion of Normandy, France. During this invasion, he was wounded and received a Purple Heart Medal.
From Soldier to Star
After World War II, David Bald Eagle explored many different jobs. He was a drummer, a race car driver, and even played semi-pro baseball. He also performed in rodeos, showing off his skills with horses and cattle.
Eventually, he began a career in Hollywood films. He used his experiences and heritage to help tell stories on screen.
David Bald Eagle in Movies
David Bald Eagle appeared in several films and TV shows. He often played roles that connected to his Native American background. He also worked as a technical advisor, helping filmmakers make sure their portrayals were accurate.
Here are some of the films and TV shows he was part of:
- Dances with Wolves (1990) – He was a technical advisor and an extra in this famous movie.
- Lakota Woman: Siege at Wounded Knee (1994) – He played an old man at the headquarters.
- Skins (2002) – He appeared as an Old Soldier.
- Into the West (2005) – In the episode "Wheel to the Stars," he played a character named Two Arrows.
- Imprint (2007) – He played a Medicine Man.
- Rich Hall's Inventing the Indian (2012) – He appeared as himself in this TV documentary.
- River of Fundament (2014) – He played Norman III.
- Neither Wolf Nor Dog (2016) – His last film role was as Dan.
David Bald Eagle passed away on July 22, 2016, at the age of 97. He left behind a legacy as a brave soldier, a talented performer, and a proud Lakota elder.
