The Kiowa Black Leggings Warrior Society is well over 200 years old having organized in the early 1800’s. In 1958, after years of inactivity, the society was revived by a group of WWII veterans, led predominately by Gus Palmer Sr. and with the advice of Kiowa elders who passed on the old society ceremony including songs, dance, and dress. The Society today, functions much like that of old and is akin to Veteran Service Organizations such as the VFW, American Legion and Disabled American Veterans (DAV). As such, they are active in veteran’s affairs within the Kiowa Tribe and throughout the state. A color guard was formed soon after the society was revived and continues to be called upon to participate in tribal, local, and statewide veteran and non-veteran ceremonies. They have evolved into a source of American Indian pride, not only for Kiowa, but Oklahoma American Indians and Oklahomans. Beginning with WWII, eleven Kiowa military servicemen have been killed in action or died in captivity, including MSG Anthony (Little Calf) Yost, U.S. Army and CPL. Joshua Ware, U.S. Marine Corps, in the recent Iraqi War.

Black Leggings honored:

Lyndreth “Tugger” Palmer | US Navy

Blas Preciado | US Marines

Goldie Kaulaity | US Army

Patrick Tsotigh | US Army

Shawn Mark Hill | USMC & US Army

Vernon Cozad