Profiles in Space: SMDC NCO Celebrates his Native American roots

Photo By Master Sgt. Robert Segin | Staff Sgt. Jonathan Maynor, Satellite Operations Brigade sexual assault response coordinator, poses in the traditional Cherokee dress of a tribal chief as part of Native American Heritage Month, which calls attention to the culture, traditions, and achievements of the nation’s original inhabitants and their descendants. Maynor is one quarter Cherokee.  

CO, UNITED STATES

11.08.2021

Courtesy Story

U.S. Army Satellite Operations Brigade

In celebration of Native American Heritage Month, which calls attention to the culture, traditions, and achievements of the nation’s original inhabitants and their descendants, we chose to highlight Staff Sgt. Jonathan Maynor, the Satellite Operations Brigade sexual assault response coordinator, who is a member of the Cherokee Tribe.

Q: Tell me about your Native American lineage.

A: My grandfather, who retired from the Army, was full-blooded Cherokee from North Carolina. He is from the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Tribe in the western part of the state in the Great Smoky Mountains. His father grew up on the reservation there. My grandfather was really involved in all the Cherokee traditions – the powwows, the food, the artwork, the tribal wear – when he was younger, and he used to involve me from time to time.

Q: What sort of Cherokee history did your grandfather pass down to you?
A: When I graduated from basic training in Oklahoma, he came out for the ceremony and afterward we went to the Cherokee National History Museum, where I learned, not only from the exhibits, but from him as we toured the place, a lot about my Cherokee roots. I didn’t know a lot of Cherokee history before that.
Q: What sort of emotions are invoked in knowing you are a Soldier and Cherokee?

A: Pride. To know your ancestors went through those tough times makes me proud to have descended from that group of people. They were the first Americans, and it’s sad what happened to them, but we are still here. I joined the Army for two main reasons, pride in serving for my country and the exposure I had growing up with both my dad and Grandfather in the Army. I think there are many similarities in both. In the Native American Culture the men typically were responsible for the hunting, fighting, and warfare for their tribes which is what I feel like I am doing for America, I see my country and the Cherokee nation as my tribe.

Q: Are you involved in any sort of Cherokee groups or organizations?

A: When I was in high school in Fayetteville (North Carolina) I was part of a group of kids who were descendants of all tribes, where we would celebrate our Native American culture and give back to the local Native American community. I do have a tribal card proving that I am Cherokee, but that is about as far as I go for now. The Army has really taken up most of my time the last eight-plus years, but when I get out, I plan on getting more involved in Cherokee-affiliated groups.

Q: What do you see yourself doing in celebrating your Native American heritage going forward?

A: Just making sure Cherokee traditions and culture isn’t lost over time. As generations diminish in native blood percentage, the tribe must continue to hold onto their culture and keep traditions alive so future Cherokee descendants know their past and what it means to come from the indigenous population of this country.

• Date Taken: 11.08.2021
• Date Posted: 11.09.2021 13:12
• Story ID: 408996
• Location: CO, US