Navajo Nation mourns death of Navy veteran who served during Vietnam War

PHOENIX – The Navajo Nation is mourning the death of a Navy veteran who served during the Vietnam War.

Wesley Simpson Sr., who also spent 38 years with the Kayenta School District, died on Monday at age 75, the tribe announced. No cause of death was given.

Tribal President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer issued a proclamation for all flags on the Navajo Nation to fly at half-staff Sunday in Simpson’s honor.

“I had the honor of personally knowing our brother for many years,” Nez said in a press release.

“Our words are not enough to honor and thank him and his loved ones for all of their sacrifices for our country and our people.”

Simpson was in the Navy from 1966 to 1970 and served two tours during the Vietnam War, the tribe said. His military awards include the Meritorious Unit Commendation Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal, First National Defense Service Medal and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

Simpson is survived by his wife, five children and 12 grandchildren.

He’ll be laid to rest Sunday at a family plot in Narrow Canyon, Arizona.

Related

Navajo Nation Fire Department secures new fire and rescue trucksRetired Gilbert fire captain honored after dying from job-related cancerStorms make way into Valley with strong winds, scattered showers causing power outages4-year-old boy dies a month after being pulled from Phoenix apartment poolTucson Police identify, charge mass shooting suspect who left 9 injuredNBA star James Harden among investors bringing Smiling Moose Sandwich Grill to Scottsdale