Join us for the 13th Anniversary of the American Indian Veterans National Memorial.

This Veterans Day, gather with us as a community to honor the service and sacrifice of Indigenous warriors throughout U.S. history. Through the power of storytelling, this special event will reflect on the courage and resilience of Native service members. Enjoy stories by veterans, veteran artist demonstrations, Native music, a film screening, family activities, dance performances, community partner tables, and more. Starting at 5:00 p.m., witness a special Sunset Tribute commemorating the 13th Anniversary of the American Indian Veterans National Memorial.

Veterans and Active-Duty Military Personnel plus one additional guest get FREE museum admission on this day.

Event Highlights

American Indian Veteran’s Day Event | 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

11 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Piper Courtyard
Enjoy a musical performance by Grammy-nominated artist Aaron White (Northern Ute/Diné), U.S. Air Force Veteran.

1, 2, & 3 p.m. | Steele Auditorium Foyer
Listen to veterans share their stories about serving in the U.S. Armed Forces with the South Mountain Community College Storytelling Institute.

1:30 & 2:30 p.m. | Piper Courtyard
Catch a special Native dance performance by Sinquah Dance Performances.

Sunset Tribute & Reception | 5 – 7 p.m.

5 p.m. | American Indian Veterans National Memorial
Witness a special Sunset Tribute commemorating the 13th Anniversary of the American Indian Veterans National Memorial.
– Welcome: David Roche, Heard Museum Dickey Family Director & CEO
– Master of Ceremonies: Marcus Monenerkit (Comanche), Heard Museum Director of Community Engagement
– Posting of Colors: Ira Hayes Post 84
– Flag Song: Wild Band
– Blessing
– Keynote Speaker: Yvette Schumard (Tohono O’odham/Hopi/Navajo), U.S. Army Veteran
– Coin Ceremony & Honor Song
– Presenter: Jim Covarubbias, U.S. Army & Vietnam Veteran

Following the Sunset Tribute, join us for a Reception in Piper Courtyard.

About the American Indian Veterans National Memorial

The American Indian Veterans National Memorial on the Heard Museum grounds is the first of its kind. Established in 2012, the memorial recognizes the significant role Native Americans have played in the U.S. Armed Forces and honors their commitment to protecting our freedoms. It consists of several sizable sculptures by acclaimed artist Allan Houser (1914-1994, Chiricahua Apache) and artist Michael Naranjo (Santa Clara Pueblo). The 10-foot Unconquered II was Allan Houser’s final sculpture. Naranjo is a U.S. Army Vietnam War veteran who suffered an injury that rendered him blind. On the east side of the sculptures, several bronze-colored panels detail the story of American Indians who have fought in conflicts from the 17th to the 21st centuries and pay tribute to American Indians who received the Medal of Honor — the nation’s highest military decoration.

As a Blue Star Museum, we’re offering FREE museum admission to veterans and active-duty military personnel of the U.S. Armed Forces (including National Guard and Reserve), plus one additional guest on November 11, 2025. Qualified members must present a valid Driver’s License with the Veteran Designation and/or Military ID.

Learn more about Blue Star Museums in-person discounts.