The Marvin “Joe” Curry Veterans Powwow, formally known as the Seneca Casino Veteran’s Powwow, is an annual contest powwow to honor Seneca Nation veterans.
A powwow is a vibrant Native American gathering celebrating culture through dance, music, and community. Powwow celebrations are a means to extend friendship and welcome other Nations across Turtle Island. The Seneca Nation Powwow celebrates Haudenosaunee (Hodinöhsö:ni’) traditions, like the powerful Smoke Dance and intertribal unity.
“Joe” was a member of the Seneca Nation’s Snipe Clan and was born on the Cattaraugus Territory. He was a member of the Iroquois Post #1587 and served in several positions with them. 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.
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, including the U.S.S. Little Rock, and receiving many medals for his meritorious service to the nation. His many qualifications included deep-sea salvage and submarine rescue diver.
Join us for the 2026 Marvin “Joe” Curry Veterans Powwow: July 17-29, 2026
