Jay Morago facts for kids

Jay R. Morago Jr. (born June 17, 1917 – died May 14, 2008) was an important leader and activist for the Gila River Indian Community. He made history by becoming their very first Governor. He also played a key role in writing the community's first official rules, called a constitution, in 1960. Morago served as Governor from 1954 to 1960.

Early Life and Education

Jay Morago was born in Sacaton, Arizona, on June 17, 1917. His parents were Jay R. and Florence Morago. He went to Arizona State College, which is now known as Arizona State University.

Military Service in World War II

During World War II, Jay Morago bravely served as a sergeant in the 158th Bushmasters Regiment. This was part of the Arizona National Guard. He fought in many important battles in the Pacific Ocean theater of World War II. These included places like Noemfoor in Indonesia, the Philippines, and the New Guinea campaign.

For his courage and service, Morago received four Bronze Star medals. He also earned a Purple Heart because he was wounded while on duty. After the war, he continued to support veterans. He joined the Veterans of Foreign Wars in Coolidge, Arizona. He was also a member of the Ira Hayes American Legion Post in Sacaton.

Leading the Gila River Indian Community

In 1954, Jay Morago was elected as the first Governor of the Gila River Indian Community. He led the community, which includes both the Akimel O'odham and Maricopa tribes, until 1960.

During his time as Governor, Morago worked hard to get water rights for his community. These rights had been slowly taken away by the state and federal governments. He also helped create and write the community's 1960 constitution. This document set up the rules for how the community would be governed. Morago also served on the Gila River Farm Board.

Later Life and Legacy

Even after leaving the Governor's office, Jay Morago remained very active in the Gila River Indian Community. He worked for the United States federal government as a "water master." In this job, he managed how water was shared for irrigation. He continued this important work until he retired.

Jay Morago passed away on May 14, 2008, at the age of 90. He died in Phoenix, Arizona, after a long illness. His funeral was held at the St. Anthony Catholic Mission in Sacaton. He was buried at the St. Anne Cemetery in Santan, Arizona. Jay Morago was married to Mary Catherine Morago. He was survived by his two sisters, seven daughters, three sons, nineteen grandchildren, and ten great-grandchildren.