Leaford Bearskin facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Leaford Bearskin
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| Chief of the Wyandotte Nation | |
| In office September 1983 – May 31, 2011 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born | September 11, 1921 Wyandotte, Oklahoma |
| Died | November 9, 2012 (aged 91) Wyandotte, Oklahoma |
| Awards | Distinguished Flying Cross Air Medal |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Branch/service | United States Army Air Forces United States Air Force |
| Years of service | 1939–1960 |
| Rank |  Lieutenant Colonel |
| Unit | 90th Bombardment Group Strategic Air Command Fifteenth Air Force |
| Battles/wars | World War II Berlin Airlift Korean War |
Leaford Bearskin (born September 11, 1921 – died November 9, 2012) was an important Native American leader. He was also an officer in the U.S. Air Force. For many years, from 1983 to 2011, he served as the Chief of the Wyandotte Nation, a Native American tribe.
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Military Service and Achievements
Leaford Bearskin had a long and brave career in the military. He joined the United States Army Air Forces in 1939. This was before the U.S. Air Force became its own separate branch.
World War II Hero
During World War II, Captain Bearskin was a pilot. He commanded a large bomber plane called a B-24 Liberator. He flew missions in the Pacific Ocean area.
Helping During the Berlin Airlift
After World War II, in 1948, Bearskin helped with the Berlin Airlift. This was a huge effort to fly supplies into West Berlin. The city was blocked by the Soviet Union. He served as a squadron commander during this important mission.
Korean War Service
Bearskin continued his service during the Korean War. Again, he was a squadron commander. He led groups of planes during this conflict.
Retirement and Honors
In 1960, Leaford Bearskin retired from the military. He had reached the rank of lieutenant colonel. He received many awards for his bravery and service. These included the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Medal for Humane Action.
Chief of the Wyandotte Nation
In September 1983, Leaford Bearskin was elected as the Chief of the Wyandotte Nation. He led his tribe for 29 years. He served as Chief until his death in 2012.
A Leader for Tribal Rights
Bill Friend, who became the new Chief, spoke highly of Bearskin. He said that Bearskin's influence was felt far and wide. He was a strong supporter of tribal sovereignty. This means the right of Native American tribes to govern themselves. Bearskin worked hard for the rights of the Wyandotte Nation. He also supported all other tribes across the United States.
