Arizona Army National Guard hosts, takes part in Native American Gourd Ceremony

By Army Sgt. Crystal Reidy

128th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment

CAMP NAVAJO TRAINING CENTER, Ariz. - Arizona Army National Guard members got a taste of traditional tribal life in a ceremonial Gourd Dance performed by dozens of Native American Indian dancers at the parade field here, recently.

“It is a real joy to continue to host this amazing ceremony again this year,” said Lt. Col. Dale Oldham, commander of the training center. “It has great significance to our nation and our community.”

The Gourd Dance is done to welcome home troops after war, said Army Master Sgt. Freddie Hatathlie, the noncommissioned officer in charge of engineering operations, adding that traditionally, the dance was for men only.

“We now allow women to participate because they are a part of the military,” said Hatathlie. “Any warrior coming home can participate.”

The Gourd Dance, which originates from the Plaines tribes, has been passed down from generation to generation, said Hatathlie. The dance is now open it to everyone.

“We want to share our traditions and cultures so more people understand us,” said Hatathlie.

 Many of the dancers are veterans of the United States armed forces and participated in conflicts from Vietnam to Iraq and Afghanistan, said Oldham. This is the third annual Gourd Dance ceremony.

 Since its beginning as an Army depot in 1942, Native Americans helped build, sustain and establish what today’s Camp Navajo is, said Oldham.

“Navajo and Hopi Indians built, worked and lived on this institution,” said Oldham.

The five-hour event started at 9 a.m. with opening ceremonies, prayers, dancing, a community lunch and then the dancing resumed. As many as 200 people attended the gathering.

“This event shows the increased interest in the Native American contribution,” said Oldham. “We are proud of this event and look forward to hosting it every year.”