Joseph Medicine Crow, a name synonymous with bravery, intellect, and unwavering dedication to his Crow heritage, stands as a towering figure in Native American history. He holds the distinction of being the last member of the Crow tribe to achieve the esteemed rank of war chief, a title earned through extraordinary feats of valor during World War II. But Joseph Medicine Crow‘s story is more than just one of wartime heroism; it’s a testament to a life lived in service to his people, a life marked by academic achievement, cultural preservation, and a profound commitment to bridging the gap between cultures.
To truly understand the significance of Joseph Medicine Crow‘s achievement, it’s essential to delve into the traditional Crow warrior culture, where acts of bravery and strategic prowess were not merely admired, but were the very foundation upon which leadership was built. The path to becoming a war chief was arduous, demanding the demonstration of four specific acts, each carrying deep spiritual and cultural weight. These were not arbitrary tests of strength or aggression; they were viewed as signs of divine favor, indicators that an individual possessed the qualities necessary to lead and protect the Crow people.
The first of these acts, and perhaps the most symbolically charged, was to be the first to strike or touch the enemy in battle. This was more than simply landing the first blow; it represented a willingness to confront danger head-on, a fearless embrace of the chaos of war. The "first striker" held a position of immense honor, their bravery inspiring and galvanizing their fellow warriors. The competition to achieve this honor often fueled the intensity of the initial assault, showcasing the Crow’s ferocity and determination. Only one warrior could claim this distinction in any given battle, making it a highly coveted and fiercely contested act of valor.
The second requirement was to seize a weapon from the enemy in combat. This act symbolized the subjugation of the opponent, a tangible demonstration of dominance and martial skill. With the introduction of firearms, the capture of a rifle became a particularly prized achievement, representing not only the acquisition of a valuable weapon but also a symbolic victory over the enemy’s power. Successfully disarming an adversary in the heat of battle required exceptional skill, courage, and tactical awareness.
The third act of bravery demanded the capture of an enemy horse. Stealing a horse, especially from the heart of the enemy’s encampment or, even more daringly, from directly outside the owner’s lodge, was a bold and audacious feat. Horses were vital to the Crow people, serving as transportation, tools for hunting, and symbols of wealth and status. To steal a horse from the enemy was not only a strategic advantage but also a significant blow to their morale and resources. This act required stealth, cunning, and a willingness to risk capture or death.
Finally, a warrior aspiring to become a chief had to successfully lead a war party. This demanded not only bravery but also strategic thinking, tactical expertise, and the ability to inspire and guide others in a high-pressure situation. Leading a war party required meticulous planning, a deep understanding of the terrain, and the ability to anticipate the enemy’s movements. A successful leader had to be able to make quick decisions under duress, maintain morale in the face of adversity, and ensure the safety and well-being of their followers.
Achieving all four of these honors was a testament to a warrior’s exceptional abilities and unwavering dedication. However, it was not an automatic guarantee of leadership. While these acts qualified an individual for consideration, the ultimate decision of who would lead rested with the Crow people themselves. The camp, clan, band, or other social group would carefully consider the eligible candidates, weighing their merits and assessing their suitability for the responsibilities of leadership. The selection of the head or principal chief was typically made by a council of chiefs, ensuring that the most qualified and respected individual was chosen to guide the tribe.
Joseph Medicine Crow‘s journey to becoming a war chief took an extraordinary turn when he enlisted in the United States Army during World War II. He served as a scout in the 103rd Infantry Division, carrying with him the traditions and spiritual beliefs of his ancestors. Even in the modern context of warfare, he remained deeply connected to his Crow heritage, wearing his war paint beneath his uniform and carrying a sacred eagle feather beneath his helmet, symbols of protection and guidance.
Remarkably, while serving in the European theater, Joseph Medicine Crow accomplished all four of the traditional acts required to become a war chief, demonstrating that the ancient values of bravery and skill could still be relevant in the modern world.
His first act came when he encountered a young German soldier while turning a corner. Instead of immediately resorting to lethal force, Medicine Crow engaged the enemy in hand-to-hand combat. He disarmed the soldier and was about to kill him when the young man cried out, "Momma." Moved by this display of humanity, Medicine Crow spared the soldier’s life, choosing compassion over vengeance. This act not only demonstrated his martial prowess but also his profound sense of empathy and his adherence to a higher moral code. He retrieved the German’s rifle, fulfilling the second requirement.
He then successfully led a war party, demonstrating his leadership skills and tactical acumen in a demanding combat environment. The specifics of this mission, while not detailed in the original account, undoubtedly required strategic planning, courage under fire, and the ability to effectively command and inspire his fellow soldiers.
Finally, in a daring display of courage and cunning, Medicine Crow stole fifty horses from a battalion of German officers during a midnight raid. As he rode away with the captured horses, he sang a traditional Crow honor song, a defiant act that resonated with the spirit of his ancestors. This act not only provided a strategic advantage but also served as a powerful symbol of resistance and cultural pride.
Beyond his wartime achievements, Joseph Medicine Crow’s life was marked by intellectual curiosity and a dedication to education. He was the first member of his tribe to graduate from college, earning a Master’s Degree in anthropology. He also received three honorary PhDs, authored numerous books on Native American military history, and served as the official historian of the Crow tribe for over six decades. His work as an historian was invaluable in preserving and sharing the rich cultural heritage of the Crow people.
In the twilight of his life, Joseph Medicine Crow received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009, the highest honor awarded to American civilians. This recognition acknowledged his extraordinary military service, his contributions to education and cultural preservation, and his tireless efforts to improve the lives of the Crow people. At the age of 95, he personally led the ceremonial dance after the presidential ceremony, a powerful symbol of his enduring spirit and his unwavering connection to his heritage.
Joseph Medicine Crow‘s legacy extends far beyond his military achievements and academic accomplishments. He was a bridge between cultures, a symbol of resilience, and a testament to the enduring power of tradition. He will forever be remembered as the last war chief of the Crow tribe, a title earned through extraordinary acts of bravery, compassion, and dedication to his people.