Tribute entered in the U.S. Congressional Record by Senator Conrad Burns, R-Montana

Mr. President,

I rise to recognize a truly great citizen, a great tribal leader and a military hero, John “Roddy” Sunchild.  The Rocky Boy Tribe of North Central Montana, the state of Montana and the United States of America have lost an outstanding leader, citizen and soldier.  And those of us who had the privilege of knowing him, his family and colleagues, we have lost a great father, grandfather, husband and friend. 

John “Roddy” Eagle Sunchild, Sr. an enrolled member of the Chippewa Cree Tribe of the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation was born June 30^th, 1930 and passed away peacefully on October 6^th, 2004.  He was the grandson of Sunchild, an early leader of the Cree people.  He attended schools on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation in Montana in his youth. 

Roddy was a quiet, unassuming man.  At the same time, he was a fierce advocate for his community and his people and a courageous warrior/soldier for his country.  He possessed a gentle, understated sense of humor that put people at ease and, at the same time, made points more eloquently than long-winded speeches. 

At age 17, Roddy enlisted in the U.S. Airborne Paratroopers and was immediately assigned to a tour in Korea.  It was during his time with the 4^th Airborne Ranger Company that he distinguished himself as one of the most honored members of the 187^th Regimental Combat Team.  Roddy received citations which included the Master Parachutist Badge, Airborne Glider Badge, the Silver Star, the Bronze Star with Double Valor, The Purple Heart, the U.S. Good Conduct Medal, Korean Campaign Medal, the U.S. Presidential Unit Citation, the French Fortigear, and Master Sergeant.  The highest level he attained in the military was an E7. 

Roddy and his wife Florence, a retired teacher for the Rocky Boy Elementary School System, have four children, nine grandchildren, and one great grandchild. 

In 1984, he was elected to the Tribal Business Committee for a four-year term.  He was again re-elected in 1988 for another four-year term.  He advocated for tribal education opportunities for his people, along with better health services.  His leadership, while serving as Chairman for the Stone Child College Board of Directors, was the primary catalyst for the college in achieving full accreditation.  He initiated various wellness programs for the Chippewa Cree Tribe and sought opportunities for individual improvement through health, education, and a stronger tribal government. 

In 1992, Roddy was elected Tribal Chairman and during his tenure the Chippewa Cree Tribe sought, and was awarded, a Self-governance Compact from the US Department of Interior Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA).  Roddy was a staunch proponent for Tribal Higher Education and for improved Health Care for his people.  Roddy was very well known throughout the United States and Canada for his active involvement in the well being and improvement of Indian Country. 

Over the past several years, Roddy founded and served as the Chief Executive Officer for the National Tribal Development Association (NTDA), which administers federal grants and cooperative agreements to enhance the governance and economies of Indian Reservations.  The NTDA also works to promote inter-tribal trade and commerce and create programs that serve as “a hands up vs. a hand out.” 

Roddy exemplified what could be construed as a true modern warrior.  He was able to advocate and promote modern ways in order to ensure that Natives could compete in today’s world.  While doing this he still held on to and practiced his true traditional & cultural ways.  He was one of our Sundance leaders, and had earned the right to practice various other cultural ceremonies.  His presence played an integral part in most cultural ceremonies held on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation.  The community depended on his services greatly; He will be truly missed. 

Family was of particular importance to Roddy.  What Roddy enjoyed most was being at home with his family, he especially enjoyed his many grandchildren.  Roddy was an active member of numerous Native American organizations and associations and was a great advocate for Native American Veterans, especially on the Rocky Boy. 

This leader, John “Roddy” Sunchild, not only set an example for others to follow, he set about his life’s work with the sole purpose of helping others to reach their full potential.  At the core of his being was his deep commitment and love for his people, the Chippewa Cree.  Through them, his legacy continues. 

As a great Leader, Roddy personified the meaning of commitment, vision and honor.  His people, Indian Country, the United States of America and the world are better for having been witness to his life on earth. 

John “Roddy” Sunchild

Dedicated Service

Chippewa Cree Tribe

1984-1996

07, October 2004

Hon. Alvin Windy Boy, Sr. Chairman

Hon. Bruce Sunchild, Council Member

Hon. Chippewa Cree Rocky Boy’s Tribal Council Members

Box 544

Box Elder, Montana 59521

Subject: John “Roddy” Sunchild

Dear Honored Ladies & Gentlemen,

            First we hope that this note finds you and your families in the best of health and spirits.  More specifically we are writing to express our utmost sadness and deepest regrets upon being informed of the passing of John “Roddy” Sunchild this morning.

            Today, here in “Washiw Itdeh” (Washoe People’s Land) the sun breaks brightly and warm autumn breeze carries our prayers on this morning of deep reflection.  Many of us live for the freedom of our people.  John Sunchild died for it.  Our horizon of the future and unfinished dreams of our fathers are illuminated by the table lamp, or today a computer screen.  John Sunchild’s were lit by the burning sun.

            We want to thank you and his beloved family for sharing him with us so long, and for sending to us your best.  We have been truly blessed and enriched by him for sharing the goodness we have been given and for teaching us the importance of being measured by our best moments.  He had an ability to look into the eyes of others and see that they can be, and also find there what we should be.  John Sunchild raised many of us, and although we will deeply miss his kind eyes and gentle touch, he now lives inside us, and will be with me wherever I go.

            In closing, on behalf of the members of a grateful nation we thank you for your fellowship, and ask that you please accept our prayers and deepest condolences.  Therefore, as Chairman of the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California, I will hereby declare the day of his arrival home “John Sunchild Honoring Day,” and ask all Washoe citizens to give pause and warm reflection in honor of this great, kind and decent man.

            Kindest and Warmest Regards,

            A. Brian Wallace, Chairman