Navajo Military Recruitment During WWII

The transcript details the Navajo people's response to World War II, highlighting their initial sacrifices and the challenges they faced in enlisting due to language barriers. It describes the Marine Corps' recruitment of Navajos for special roles, emphasizing the importance of bilingual skills. The narrative includes a speech by First Sergeant Shin and personal reflections on enlistment decisions, illustrating the cultural and personal dynamics at play during this historical period.

What event marked the beginning of the Navajos' increased awareness of the global conflict?

• The signing of the Treaty of Versailles

• The fall of Wake Island

• The attack on Pearl Harbor

• The Battle of Midway

Why were many Navajo men initially unable to join the U.S. military?

• They only spoke Navajo or had limited English skills

• They lacked proper documentation

• They were needed at home for farming

• They were too young

What was the initial belief about the duration of the war?

• It would last for decades

• It would last exactly five years

• It would never end

• It would be over quickly

What change occurred in April 1942 regarding Navajo enlistment?

• Navajos were exempted from military service

• A special recruitment drive for Navajos was announced

• Navajos were required to serve in non-combat roles

• Navajos were allowed to join any branch of the military

What was the main reason the Marine recruiter was impressive to the Navajo youth?

• His ability to speak Navajo fluently

• His serious demeanor and the impressive uniform

• His promise of high salaries

• His stories of past battles

What was the reaction of the Navajo community to the Marine recruiter's announcement?

• Excitement and interest

• Indifference

• Fear and hesitation

• Anger and protest

What did the Marine recruiter promise to the Navajo recruits?

• Immediate promotion to officer rank

• Opportunities to travel and learn new skills

• Exemption from combat duties

• Free education for their children

What was the age requirement for Navajo men to enlist in the Marines?

• 15 to 30 years old

• 17 to 32 years old

• 18 to 35 years old

• 16 to 28 years old

What did the narrator's parents decide regarding his wish to enlist?

• They immediately agreed

• They refused outright

• They asked him to wait another year

• They suggested he join a different branch

What was a significant cultural factor affecting Navajo enlistment?

• Lack of interest in the military

• Absence of birth certificates

• Prohibition of military service by tribal law

• Preference for other jobs