Navajo Code Talker Alfred James Peaches dies at age 90
WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. — Flags will be lowered across the Navajo Nation in honor of another Navajo Code Talker who has died.
Tribal officials announced Wednesday that Alfred James Peaches died last Saturday at a Flagstaff hospital at age 90.
Tribal President Russell Begaye commended Peaches for defending the United States in World War II, using a code based on the Navajo language that stumped the Japanese.
Born in Shonto, Arizona, Peaches was among hundreds of Navajos who served as Code Talkers. He was part of the 6th Marine Division from 1943 to 1946.
Peaches is survived by his wife Jeanette, two sons, two daughters, five grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
A memorial service is scheduled Saturday at Leupp First Presbyterian Church.
Begaye has ordered flags flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Saturday.
