History Center to examine book about WWII Navajo code talkers

Copies of the World War II memoir Code Talker by Chester Nez are now available at the readers services desk at the Des Plaines Public Library, 1501 Ellinwood Street. This historical narrative will be discussed at the Des Plaines History Center, 781 Pearson Street, Wednesday, July 15, from 6-7. Adults and high school students are welcome.

The book tells the story of the Navajo Marine code talkers, the men who developed and implemented an unbreakable communications system that helped ensure the American defeat of the Japanese in the Pacific War. It is the only memoir written by one of the original Navajo code talkers.

The History Center selected this book because 2015 marks the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II and has been hosting various war-related programs all year long. Pick up a copy of the memoir and join the informal and educational discussion facilitated by History Center curator Philip Mohr. Call 847-391-5399 to register. This event is co-sponsored by the History Center and the Des Plaines Public Library.

After the discussion, guests are welcome to view the exhibit, “World War II: Des Plaines and the War against Fascism,” which will remain on display at the History Center through December. For more information, visit www.desplaineshistory.org. When online, visitors are invited to like us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, and become a member to receive updates, bulletins, and newsletters.

The Des Plaines History Center is supported by the City of Des Plaines, the Des Plaines Park District, its members, and other local business and community contributors.