Sophie Yazzie may not be a name that you know, but this woman, who was born to a Navajo family in Canyon de Chelly, AZ needs to be known. When she was born, her family may not have known that she would play an important part in American history but it really got its start when she was 28 years old. She wanted to serve her country so she joined the U.S. Army Air Corps and ended up being one of the longest living World War II veterans. In January, she was 105 years old when she passed away. She left behind a legacy, not only from her time in the military but with four children, five grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.
President Jonathan Nez from the Navajo nation spoke about Sophie in a press release, saying that she was a “warrior for our Navajo people who served our country with great honor and dignity.” A statement was issued by the Department of Veterans when Sophie died. Wanda Wright, a spokesperson for that organization wrote the following on a Facebook post: “We are saddened to hear of the passing of Sophie Yazzie. Sophie, a WWII veteran died today at the age of 105 surrounded by her family. A Navajo veteran, she was born and raised in Canyon de Chelly and served in the Women’s Army Air Corps.” Wright also said that she met Sophie personally.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR BEAUTIFUL AND COURAGEOUS WOMAN DINÈ WARRIOR ~ Sergeant Sophie Yazzie, 104 YEARS YOUNG! What a…
Posted by Navajo Hopi Honor Riders on Sunday, August 19, 2018
Wright had the honor of meeting Sophie and presenting her with the governor of Arizona’s Women Veteran’s Week proclamation. She received an honorable discharge from the U.S. Army Air Corps and later went to work at a private boarding school as a cook. She continued to work at the Wingate Boarding School until her retirement. In the state of Arizona, Sophie was the longest living veteran. A group of Navajo nation members referred to Sophie’s presence among the Navajo people as a ‘prayer and a blessing’ when she turned 102.
Saddened to learn of the passing of Sophie Yazzie, a World War II Veteran and member of the Navajo Nation. At the age of 105, Sophie was one of the longest living female WWII veterans. Arizona is forever grateful for her service. Our prayers are with her loved ones. #RIP pic.twitter.com/oxsIVgdowT
— Doug Ducey (@dougducey) January 26, 2020
Doug Ducey, the governor of Arizona issued a statement on Twitter after Sophie’s death. He said he was saddened to learn that she had passed away and is grateful for the service she provided. Sophie Yazzie died in Tuscon, Arizona with loving family members by her side.
The following video shows how the Navajo Code Talkers used their native language during World War II to send secret messages.