November 27, 2012 –
Members of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation performed today during a Native American Heritage month observance at Ft. Riley, Kan. hosted by the 1st Infantry Division Equal Opportunity Office.
Garrett Rodewald, 13, a PBPN member and student at Royal Valley Middle School, read a Tribal Council Resolution in support of the Native American month observance. Chairman Ortiz was the keynote speaker during the luncheon event.
Garrett Rodewald, back row, fifth from left, was photographed with members of his family, Royal Valley students and his instructor. Chairman Ortiz, and advisors from the Division of Equal Opportunity are also pictured.
First Brigadier General Donald M. MacWillie, presented a certificate of appreciation to Chairman Ortiz on behalf of the Native American Heritage month observance.
Gubba Hale, left, drummed and sang a veteran’s song while Rodewald, Ortiz, and the General looked on. General MacWillie was given a Pendleton blanket from the PBPN.
Royal Valley students who are all PBPN members also attended the event today and were photographed with General MacWillie and their teacher. From left to right are, Blake Garrison, 13, Josie Matsapto, 13, Phlyte Wishteyah, 14, General MacWillie, Samantha Rupnick, 13, Garrett Rodewald, 13, Brendon Rodewald, 12, and teacher Nathan McAlister.
Part of the celebration was a Round Dance/Friendship dance where the PBPN dancers were joined by members of the audience.