Thanking Their Tribal Military Veterans at Feast

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Saginaw Chippewa community honors, thanks tribal military veterans at feast

November 18, 2012 - One of the most-used words in the Saginaw Chippewa’s Ojibwe language is “meegwetch,” meaning thank you.

During a feast Friday evening with military veteran tribal members, “meegwetch” was used to thank veterans; both those who prepared the meal and those honoring the veterans with applause.

“They all took their vows and signed that piece of paper to give their lives for this country,” said George Martin, a tribal member and Korean War veteran. “We fought for this Mother Earth that you’re walking on … Mother Earth of the United States.”

About 80 people attended the event at Elijah Elk Cultural Center Ceremonial Building, 7957 E. Remus Road, sponsored by the Seventh Generation program. The veterans were honored and given a shield with a turtle meticulously drawn in the center.

Before a line formed for the feast, a traditional drum song was performed from the corner of the room. Centuries-old vocal notes were sung in passionate bursts, metered by the echoing thud of the leather drum. read more>>>