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It Was a Great Day in Gallup!
Operation Veterans Wellness
July 18, 2025

Activities at Operation Veterans Wellness included a gourd dance.
The gourd dance honors veterans and men of wisdom, past and present.
The dance is typically performed by men with women dancing in place behind them.
Gourd Dance participants drape a red and blue blanket over their shoulders, representing night and day. A rattle is used to accompany the drumbeat,
and a feather fan is held in the opposite hand.
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The Gourd Dance
Native American participation in the military is very strong. Nearly 19% of Native Americans have served in the armed forces and, today, nearly 15,000 active duty service members identify as American Indian or Native Alaskan.
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