Way of the Warrior

Description

Exploring the warrior ethic among Native Americans, this documentary reveals how Native communities have traditionally viewed their warriors and why, during the 20th century, Native men and women have signed up for military service at a rate three times higher than non-Indians.

Way of the Warrior also examines the visceral nature of war and the bravery of Native American veterans who served in World War I, World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War–and came to grips with the difficult post-war personal and societal conditions.

This program honors the endurance and sacrifice of individuals such as Mitchell Red Cloud (Ho-Chunk), a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient; Ira Hayes (Pima), one of the flag raisers on Iwo Jima; Phil Coon (Creek), a Bataan Death March survivor; and John Yahola (Creek), a member of the Red Stick Warrior Society. Their stories are examined through the prism of what it means to be “ogichidaa,” one who protects and follows the way of the warrior.