The success of the code during World War II led to its use during the Vietnam and Korean Wars and still it remained unbroken (Ponder; 20th CBRNE Command). Upon returning from the war, the code talkers didn’t say much about the use of the code nor did they receive recognition because its use was classified information. In 1968, the information was declassified and in 1982 President Ronald Reagan proclaimed August 14th as National Code Talker Day thereby recognizing the impact they had upon U.S. efforts in the Pacific during World War II (Ponder).
"Reagan signing the papers designating Code Talker Day"
(C09356 (02)
“Now, Therefore, I, Ronald Reagan, President of the United States of America, do hereby designate August 14, 1982, as National Navajo Code Talkers Day, a day dedicated to all members of the Navajo Nation and to all Native Americans who gave of their special talents and their lives so that others might live. I ask the American people to join me in this tribute, and I call upon Federal, State and local officials to commemorate this day with appropriate activities” - Ronald Reagan
It still bothers some that they were forced to not speak in their native tongue and later asked to help in the war with that exact language (Tapahonso, Zalcman; Arbuckle).
“Navajo getting honored” (Carl Gorman)
“Navajos getting honored” (Navajo Code Talkers Honored)