Navajo Code Talker receives 2nd COVID vaccine

FARMINGTON, N.M.—For Navajo Code Talker Thomas Begay, Feb. 23 1945 is a day he will never forget.

After days of fighting, several Marines raised a U.S. flag during the battle of Iwo Jima back in World War II.

“I was there and I watched them raising the flag,” said Thomas Begay.

On the 76th anniversary of that historic day, Begay experienced another moment in history.

“You got your vaccine yesterday,” said Thomas Begay’s son.

Begay received his second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

“I think it is good to be alive. It’s very fortunate to get the medication," said Begay

February has been a busy month for the veteran. Earlier this month he celebrated his 97th birthday—but don’t let his age fool you. He can still recall every detail from his time in the war.

“It was really something. In my life I’ve seen movies, but it was real," Begay added.