By Roy Cook

The American Indian Warriors (AIWA) Honor Color Guard participated in the 8 am opening ceremony of the Society of American Indian Government Employees, SAIGE on June 2, 2009

AIWA members arrived early and had time to enjoy a sit-down breakfast with the Crooked Hat singers.

AIWA presented a patriotic opening to the event: the Crooked Hat singers from Ventura, CA sang the entry song, Osage Flag song and Ponca victory song. Robert DeCray excellently sang National Anthem. SCAIR Senor advisor Randy Edmonds provided the blessing.

We were honored to add a returning Iraq veteran, active duty, Marine to the Honor guard. He is a Dine, SSgt. Eric Morris, based at Camp Pendleton. He and AIWA event coordinator Ronnie Murphy, USMC, were standing proudly along with, also added, Wesley J. Westphal USAF.

The right side of honor was all Navy: Ivan Sam, Joaquin Sandoval and Richard Decrane with the American flag. We appreciate Randy Edmonds photographic efforts for these images of the event.

Thanks to all of the SAIGE members attending this 6th annual conference for their work helping our Indian people in this hemisphere, Mehan, Aho.