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Memorial Day is one the most difficult days of the year for our servicemembers, Veterans, families, and survivors. While some will celebrate the holiday with picnics and vacations, many of
Fairbanks was the first Native American to serve as force master chief petty officer, the highest-ranking enlisted Navy Seabee. He is a 1970 graduate of Park Rapids Area High School.
“What the Navy knows, and what White Earth knows, is that stories matter. That history matters. That traditions matter. Honoring warriors like FORCM Fairbanks matters,” said Gov. Tim Walz.
The Navy will name a future Navajo-class Towing, Salvage, and Rescue ship after James D. Fairbanks, a member of the Chippewa Tribe and the 13th Force Master Chief Petty Officer of the Seabees.
The U.S. Navy is honoring the life and service of a White Earth Nation citizen, dedicating a ship in his name. Chief Master James D. Fairbanks (1952-2011) joins a small group of prominent Native American leaders for whom T-ATS Naval ships are named.