YALE CLUB OF SOUTHERN ARIZONA

THE ARIZONA INN
Friday, January 5th,  NOON

JIM TURNER    
Navajo  Code Talkers
The Important History of An Impenetrable Code

During World War II, secrecy was vital.  This was especially true in the Pacific Theater, where deploying troops, equipment, and supplies to hundreds of islands without the enemy’s knowledge was an enormous challenge.  An unbreakable code became a top priority for U.S. military leaders. The Japanese were adept at breaking every one the Allies devised, except for one: a code based on the Navajo Indian language.

Jim describes how the US Military came up with the idea to use the Navajo language as a code, how they worked with the Navajo to develop the code and why the Navajo language was so well suited for the job.  He identifies the unsung tribal heroes that made this giant impact on the war as he unveils this rich, captivating, and crucial part of United States history. Jim will give a comprehensive and heartfelt presentation on this unique band of heroes.

Jim Turner earned his master’s degree in U.S. history from the University of Arizona in 1999. He is the author of Arizona: A Celebration of the Grand Canyon State, and is currently an author and editor for Rio Nuevo Publishers. Jim wrote The Mighty Colorado River from the Glaciers to the Gulf in 2015 and Crater Lake and Beyond: Land of Fire and Ice in 2016. He also teaches Arizona history for Roads Scholars (formerly Elderhostel), is a presenter for the Arizona Humanities at libraries and museums statewide, and gives regular presentations at several senior retirement communities in Tucson and Phoenix.

THE ARIZONA INN
2200 E Elm St.
(between Campbell and Tucson Blvd.)
Free parking across the street from the main entrance

When you RSVP, please tell us if you would prefer the vegetarian/vegan selection. Since this is a plated-luncheon, the main course for the attendees (including rolls, salad, dessert, and coffee or tea) will be the Chef’s Choice.

$30 at the door (cash or check)

Registration starts 11:30 AM at The Arizona Inn (Tucson Room)
Lunch will be served at Noon

RSVP  to Cathy Anderson at yaleclub.arizona@gmail.com by January 1st

Please treat your reservation as a commitment and notify us if you are unable to attend.