President Shelly Gives Keynote Address at Veterans' Center Dedication

Native News Network Staff in Native Currents. Discussion »

BURNHAM, NEW MEXICO - Navajo President Ben Shelly gave the keynote address at the dedication of the Tiis Tsoh Sikaad Veterans' Memorial Complex on Friday.

Vision to Reality

“Be proud to be American and be proud to be Diné,”

Navajo President Shelly stated in his keynote address.

The reality is the dedication of the 2,500 square foot veterans center began 14 years ago with a plan of a memorial in form of a statue. The idea evolved into the veterans' center designed by the Tiis Tsoh Sikaad Veterans Organization.

Navajo President Shelly said the veteran's center started when

“somebody had a vision and it became a reality.”

Tiis Tsoh Sikaad Veterans Organization said more than 50 veterans live in the Tiis Tsoh Sikaad Chapter area. The mission of the organization is to teach "children to understand the cost of freedom, honor, duty, courage and their calling in life as human beings."

“This building is for the veterans of the area to come together and the fireplace here in the middle will bring people together for ceremony.”

Navajo President Shelly said.

Tiis Tsoh Sikaad Veterans Memorial Complex sits next to Burnham Chapter House.

posted February 24, 2012 7:40 am est