Oglala Lakota Veterans Pow Wow hosted Jet Fly Over

PINE RIDGE — A record-breaking crowd gathered for the 45th Annual Oglala Lakota Veterans Pow Wow, an event that has been honoring veterans since 1980. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect for the weekend celebration, providing an ideal backdrop to honor and pay tribute to the Oglala Sioux Tribal Veterans. The event proudly showcased four generations of men and women veterans, representing service from World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, and Afghanistan, creating a heartfelt and historic tribute to those who served.

Fifteen drum groups performed at this special event, sharing powerful honoring songs to commemorate those who fought and sacrificed their lives to keep America free. The nation owes a heartfelt tribute to the brave Lakota men and women, beginning with the legendary Code Talkers. These resilient individuals used Lakota, Dakota, and Navajo languages to thwart enemy communications— transmitting troop movements and radio codes that even the most skilled adversaries couldn’t decipher. Their vital contributions played a crucial role in turning the tide of the war and securing victory for the Allies. The OST Veterans Pow Wow also saw a significant presence of Vietnam War veterans, honoring their service and sacrifice alongside the historic legacies of their Lakota counterparts.

Some of the notable veterans who stood out at the event included Brian Brewer, Chuck Conroy, and Maurice Twiss. The Vietnam War was a difficult and turbulent chapter in history, and it proved to be a double-edged sword for Native veterans. Vietnam veteran and former Oglala Sioux Tribe President John Steele, who served as an interpreter during the war, has spoken openly about the harsh treatment Vietnam veterans faced upon returning home. Many were called “baby killers” and faced spit and hostility from an unwelcoming public—a painful and confusing experience, especially for indigenous veterans who had envisioned a warm homecoming and celebration. For Native veterans, returning home was even more challenging, as they had to fight for justice within the very country that sent them abroad to defend it.

At the Oglala Lakota Veterans Pow Wow, veterans are honored with the utmost respect and recognition. The event not only paid tribute to those who served during wartime but also celebrated peacetime veterans, emphasizing the deep gratitude and acknowledgment owed to all who sacrificed for their country. It was a powerful reminder that their service, regardless of the circumstances, is valued and honored within the community.

A strong presence of Marine and Army veterans was evident at the event, alongside veterans from the Navy and Air Force. These divisions of Native veterans served in various capacities—some as ground troops, others providing aerial and sea support. Leading the charge was Frank Star Comes Out, a veteran of the Persian Gulf War and Mogadishu, Somalia. He formed a line that stretched across the entire Daniel Stands Memorial

Arena—an enormous space capable of fitting a football field inside. With Star Comes Out and ring announcer Robert Two Crow engaging the crowd, the atmosphere brimmed with warmth and camaraderie, filling the arena with a joyful energy.

Soon, it was time for the grand entry, led by Army veteran Dino Holy Eagle, whose skillful display of the Wacipi (dance) captivated all watching. The Oglala Lakota Veterans Powwow featured multiple dance categories, beginning with the Golden Age 55+ division, which included both men and women. Followed by adult, teen, and junior categories, the grand entry showcased a beautiful array of traditional dances. And who could forget the adorable little participants in the Tiny Tot category? Proud parents cheered them on enthusiastically, capturing precious moments of their children’s proudest moments on camera.

Among the crowd of dancers, one adult performer stood out— Ira Colhoff. Ira, a respected traditional dancer, has competed and placed in numerous Pow Wows across the region, notably taking first place at the 2025 Oglala Sioux Tribe Veteran’s Powwow. What makes Ira’s dancing truly unique is his departure from the typical formation; he breaks the line and performs a three-directional dance, a style rooted in Omaha society’s tradition of not dancing in a straight line. Ira explains that this approach reflects their cultural significance— showing unity without revealing how many tribe members are present.

While the drum groups and dancers captured everyone’s attention, the main highlight everyone eagerly anticipated was the “Flyover” by the South Dakota National Guard. Four F-16 fighter planes streaked across the sky, descending rapidly and flying over the crowd in a powerful display of precision and speed. Many spectators with cameras expected a slower aircraft, like the B-1 Bomber, whose afterburners are famously visible from the ground. Instead, the jets zoomed by so fast they appeared as mere blurs, heightening the excitement and adrenaline among the crowd.

Eyapaha Robert Two Crow kept everyone attentive and hushed as they awaited the jets’ arrival. The coordination of the flyover was made possible through the efforts of Oglala Sioux Tribe Cultural Liaison Corey Black Feather, who worked closely with the South Dakota National Guard to ensure a seamless and memorable display.

With its perfect blend of culture, camaraderie, and awe-inspiring entertainment, the Oglala Sioux Pow Wow is a must-attend event—one that truly deserves a spot on your calendar.

(Contact Kirk Dickerson at salesmanager@nativesunnews.today)

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