HomeMy WebLinkAbout26-0035 - 2026-03-03 - Informal ReportINFORMAL REPORT TO CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
No. 26-0035
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To the Mayor and Members of the City Council
March 3, 2026
Page 1 of 1
SUBJECT: CHOCTAW CODE TALKERS HISTORICAL MARKER AT
VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK
This report provides information regarding the Texas Historical Commission's Choctaw Code
Talker Historic Marker to be installed at the City's Veterans Memorial Park.
Background
Since October 1950, Veterans Memorial Park has served as a solemn tribute to those who
served in America's wars, especially the men and women from Fort Worth. The park features
several significant memorials, including those dedicated to the Texas 36th Infantry Division, one
for World War I (installed in 1950) and another for World War II (1987).
Visitors will also find a statue honoring Flanders Field (WWI), four monuments recognizing Medal
of Honor recipients with Fort Worth connections, two naval projectiles from WWII, and a Navy
anchor on loan from the U.S. Navy commemorating the commissioning of the USS Fort Worth.
In partnership with the Choctaw Nation, the Texas Historical Commission has proposed adding a
historical marker recognizing the Choctaw Code Talkers who were members of the 36th Infantry
Division during World War I. These Native American soldiers played a critical role in Allied
communications during campaigns in northern France. By transmitting messages in the Choctaw
language, a code the Germans could not decipher within 24 hours, they became instrumental to
U.S. operations. The Choctaw Code Talkers are widely considered to be the first Native American
Code Talkers to serve in the U.S. military.
This new marker would expand the park's mission to honor not only military service, but also the
unique cultural contributions that have shaped U.S. history. Staff has involved the City's Historic
Preservation Officer throughout the process and briefed the Park & Recreation Advisory Board at
the February 25, 2026, meeting.
Unveiling Event
The Park & Recreation Department is working with Texas Historical Commission, Choctaw
Nation, and others to plan an unveiling event for the Choctaw Code Talker Historical Marker. The
event is scheduled for April 1, 2026.
For any questions, please contact Joel McKnight, Park & Recreation Department Assistant
Director, at Joel. McKniaht(a)fortworthtexas.aov.
Jesus "Jay" Chapa
City Manager
ISSUED BY THE CITY MANAGER FORT WORTH, TEXAS