History
The Marvin “Joe” Curry Veterans Powwow is named in honor of admired Seneca Nation warrior
Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) Boatswain (Bos’n) Marvin Curry served on active duty in the United States Navy from 1950 to 1970. He was a veteran of both the Korean and Vietnam Wars, serving on eight ships during his distinguished career receiving many medals for his meritorious service to the nation. His many qualifications included deep-sea salvage and submarine rescue diver.
As ship’s boatswain for the USS Little Rock, Marvin served from 1966 to 1970 with the responsibility for the ship’s readiness, maintenance of the hull, deck equipment and small boats and for training and advising all deck force personnel.
After his retirement from active duty, CWO Bos’n “Joe” Curry served as the original superintendent who established the Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park from 1977 to 1997, supervising the refurbishment and maintenance of the park’s military surplus vessels, aircrafts and vehicles.
In addition, Joe played a critical role in recognizing the need for and importance of improving the quality-of-life for a large number of the Seneca Nation veterans and worked hard to establish a Veterans Affairs advocate initiative for the Seneca Nation. This effort was instrumental in allowing the Iroquois Post 1587 to enhance their prideful cultural immersion and community engagement efforts with a focus on youth and honoring and paying tribute to our native warriors.
The Marvin “Joe” Curry Veterans Powwow, formally known as the Seneca Casino Thunder Falls Veteran’s Powwow, is an annual contest powwow in honor of our veterans. Joe was a member of the Seneca Nation’s Snipe Clan and was born on the Cattaraugus Territory and dedicated member of the Iroquois Post #1587 and served in several positions with them. Our annual powwow is possible through the hard work of Iroquois Post 1587 as well as support from the Seneca Nation and the Seneca Allegany Casino.
