Dumfries, VA – Artist Edward Condra presented his paintings of Navajo Nation Code Talkers to the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation on June 4, 2009 for inclusion in the art collection of the National Museum of the Marine Corps.  Condra, a Smithfield, Virginia resident, was commissioned by the Foundation in 2008 to study and create a series of paintings on Navajo Nation Code Talkers for the Museum, preserving the history of the Native Americans who played an integral role in Marine Corps history during World War II.  He spent much of the summer in Arizona and New Mexico with the few surviving Code Talkers and their families, documenting his journey through field sketches and photographs before returning to his studio in Virginia.  The paintings will be included in the National Museum of the Marine Corp’s significant collection of combat art.

"As a generation of Marines and Navajo Code Talkers ages, it is critical for us as Americans to capture the rich history of our nation while we have the opportunity," said LtGen Ron Christmas USMC (Ret), President & CEO of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation.  "Our mission at the Foundation is to preserve Marine Corps history for future generations and Mr. Condra’s work is a significant contribution to that effort with the National Museum of the Marine Corps."

The Navajo Code Talkers played significant roles in the U.S. Marine Corps throughout World War II, transmitting secret tactical messages over military telephone and radio communications networks using formal or informally developed codes based on their native languages.  Known for their skill, speed and accuracy, Navajo Code Talkers were used particularly in the Pacific campaign during the war.

Dedicated to the preservation and promotion of Marine Corps history, the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation was established in 1979 as a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization.  The Foundation supports the historical programs of the Marine Corps in ways not possible through government funds, providing grants and scholarships for research and the renovation, restoration and commissioning of historical Marine Corps artifacts and landmarks.  Securing the necessary funding for the complete construction of the National Museum of the Marine Corps and Heritage Center is the Foundation’s current primary mission while continuing to provide program support for the Corps’ historical, museum, and educational activities.

For photos or to speak with Edward Condra, contact Chris Vassil at 202-340-8099 or cvassil@susandavis.com.