Diné Bahaneʼ, the Navajo creation story, as told by Cadet Trenton Tom, USMA Class of 2024

“Nocturne for Bassoon and Marimba,” Connor Chee*

Staff Sgt. Briana Hoffman, bassoon
Staff Sgt. Ted Jackson, marimba

Drum Circle Performers
Cadet Johnny Beattie, Class of 2024
Cadet Logan Melendez, Class of 2024
Cadet Trenton Tom, Class of 2024
Cadet Owen Teehee, Class of 2026

U.S. Army video by West Point Band
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In honor of National American Indian Heritage Month, we’re proud to share this collaboration featuring Cadet Trenton Tom, USMA Class of 2024, and members of the West Point Band. Tom shares selections from of Diné Bahaneʼ, the Navajo creation story, set to music by Navajo composer Connor Chee.

Diné Bahaneʼ, translating to, "Story of the People,” is the creation story that describes the birth of the Navajo people. The story, which centers around the ancestral Navajo homeland Dinétah, has been told many times and in many ways, and is central to the traditional Navajo way of life.

“The Navajo people thrive through their language, livestock, and strong work ethic,” explained Tom, who grew up in Shiprock, New Mexico, in the Navajo Nation.

At West Point, Tom participates in the Native American Heritage Forum, a cadet club that is comprised of Native American cadets of diverse cultural backgrounds and Nations. In Tom’s words, the forum is about, “building relationships with cadets that have a similar background. We check in on each other and talk about Native culture. There are great cadets past and present that I have met through the club.” The club's mission is to enhance cultural awareness throughout the Academy while offering support and development opportunities to cadets from Native American backgrounds. Additional members of the forum are featured in video footage from a powwow drum circle.

We are proud to honor American Indian and Alaska Native voices, culture, and faithful stewardship of the land on which we serve. From the ancestral home of the Lenni Lenape and Mohican peoples, and across the nation.

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Select Navajo images are courtesy of the San Juan School District Heritage Language Resource Center and navajopeople.org

*Navajo pianist and composer Connor Chee is known for combining his classical piano training with his Native American heritage. Much of Chee’s music is inspired by traditional Navajo chants and songs.

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