John Kinsel Sr., World War II Veteran and Last Surviving Navajo Code Talker, Passes Away at 107

Flagstaff, Arizona – Remembering John Kinsel Sr.

John Kinsel Sr., a notable figure from World War II and one of the last surviving Navajo Code Talkers, has passed away. He died on Saturday at the remarkable age of 107, leaving behind a legacy that played a crucial role in securing victory for the Allies in the Pacific theater. The Navajo Nation’s president, Buu Nygren, confirmed Kinsel’s death through a post on social media, but no specific cause for his passing has been disclosed.

The Role of Code Talkers

During World War II, an estimated 400 Navajo men served as Code Talkers, using their native language to create a unique encrypted code. This code was vital in transmitting information about troop movements and enemy positions, effectively confusing Japanese forces. The success of this code was significant because it was never broken during the war.

Kinsel was part of the second group of Marines trained as code talkers at Camp Elliott, California, starting his service in October 1942 and extending until January 1946. He trained with a group of 25 other marines and collaborated with the original 29 Code Talkers who had developed the initial coding system. Together, they worked to create additional code words for military terms, enhancing the communication process.

A Veteran’s Path

As a member of the Ninth Marine Regiment, of the Third Marine Division, Kinsel took part in significant battles throughout the Pacific campaign, including the battles of Bougainville in Papua New Guinea, Guam, and the iconic battle of Iwo Jima. Although he did not serve directly on the front lines, he played a critical role by assisting his division headquarters while stationed on Bougainville Island. His responsibilities included developing and transcribing coded messages that were essential for military operations.

Cultural Impact and Recognition

The story of the Navajo Code Talkers, including Kinsel’s contributions, has been recognized in various cultural forms, including films. A fictionalized account of their experiences is depicted in the movie “Windtalkers,” directed by John Woo. The film, while dramatized, brings some attention to the important role these indigenous soldiers played in the war and highlights their bravery and ingenuity.

Legacy of Service

In an interview with The Arizona Republic in 2019, Kinsel shared memories of his training at Camp Elliott and his proud service as a Code Talker. He reflected on the challenges and camaraderie of working alongside his fellow marines and the original Code Talkers who had developed the basis for their code. Kinsel’s experiences not only contributed to the war effort but also underscored the resilience and bravery of the Navajo people.

As we remember John Kinsel Sr., it is essential to acknowledge his impact as a veteran and a member of the Navajo Nation. His contributions as a Code Talker were crucial during one of the most challenging times in American history. Kinsel’s passing marks the end of an era but ensures his legacy will be honored by future generations.