Crow Elder Receives High Honor

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By Stephanie Domurat

Story Published: Jun 25, 2008 at 6:24 PM MST

Story Updated: Jun 25, 2008 at 6:24 PM MST

GARRYOWEN - A Crow Tribal Elder is now garnering international attention for his heroism during WWII.

People from across the state and country came together Wednesday to recognize Dr. Joseph Medicine Crow. Though his courageous war acts were demonstrated years ago, his dedication inspiration and legacy live on Wednesday.

French anthem, Crow anthem, two anthems from two different nations to celebrate one man with honor. Dr. Joseph Medicine Crow receives two of the highest medals of honor. "During my years in the Army I never received a thing! Not until Wednesday. However this kind of makes up for it," says Dr. Joseph Medicine Crow.

A member of the French Embassy thanked Dr. Medicine Crow saying the French people will never forget his courage and devotion for freedom, Awarding Dr. Medicine Crow with the French Legion of Honor, one of the highest merits given by the French government. He was also presented a Bronze Star by the United States military, for his courage in battle.

"Great honor has come to my father Medicine Crow and we're highly honored that this is happening Wednesday and were so happy that at his age he is able to be honored in this way," says son Ronald Medicine Crow. The 94 year old, met and surpassed the requirements of a war chief during WWII, including retrieving weapons and stealing hidden horses from enemy.

"Well deserved, these metals that are given are not given out too easily", says Christopher Kortlander of Custer Battlefield Museum. But beyond his military merit, Dr. Medicine Crow was the first Crow to receive a Masters degree and Doctorate in education. Using his knowledge and courage to serve as a peacemaker between different groups.

And though he no longer triumphs in battle, he continues to succeed to teach young men and women of Wednesday. "They're in a different battlefield now, field of education stay in school as long as possible get a college degree and use your education to help your people or on the reservation," says Medicine Crow.

After receiving his medals, Medicine Crow went on to give gifts to others, as a part of Native American tradition to give to others when honor is given to you.

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Descendent of a Crow Elder said on Thursday, Jun 26 at 2:14 PM

There was reason why Joe was never honored, because he had never done any deeds. Almost all the elders that know of him and how he can tell a tale are gone to the happy hunting ground. I guess he can fool the white people and the younger generation, but I for one have been raised by my grandmother, know as well as the whole reservation about his lies. The elders blamed him for losing our river. They say he is the only one that cross the bering straight, not the Crow People. I apologize to you

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