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The Cherokee Nation, Oklahoma has established the GaDuGi Award to honor individuals, families, or groups who put the Cherokee people first by engaging in an act or actions, which protect, preserve, and promote the well being and legacy of the Cherokee People.

Howard C. Walkingstick receives the GaDuGi award from Cherokee Nation Principal Chief, Chad Smith.

Howard Walkingstick, Diana Mouse who acted as chair for the GaDuGi Commitee, and Galela Walkingstick, Howard and Galela are brother and sister, ages 87 and 92 respectively, and have been involved all their lives in the welfare of the Native American People.

Council Member Johnny Keener of the Salina District greets and congratulates the WalkingStick family on this honor.

Michael 'Wauhilau' Gregory and Howard Walkingstick present Professor Jim McCullaugh of Iowa State University with a Cherokee Walking Stick in appreciation for his recommendation to the Cherokee Nation for the Honoring of Howard Walkingstick with the Cherokee Nation, Oklahoma, GaDuGi award.

The presentations took place in the foyer to the council chambers, the Great Seal of the Cherokee Nation is seen behind the Professor. To the right, you can see the bust of a very famous sculpture, by Cherokee artist Willard Stone, entitled "Exodus", one of the true symbols today of the Trail of Tears.