Navajo Code Talkers: The Unbreakable Communication
The Navajo code talkers and their code were so different and difficult to decipher because they used their indigenous Navajo language to transmit coded messages. The Navajo language does not have a formal alphabet, so the code talkers had to adapt Navajo words to represent military terms and use a unique phonetic alphabet. For example, they would use words like 'iron fish' for 'submarine'. This made the code extremely secure because it was based on a language that very few people outside of the Navajo tribe understood.
Being a Navajo code talker was also dangerous because they served as communication specialists in the Pacific Theater of World War II. They were on the frontlines, relaying important messages between units and commanders. The code talkers had to operate in dangerous combat situations, often under enemy fire, risking their lives to ensure the success of the military operations. If captured by the enemy, they could face torture or even death.