In a somber announcement, the Navajo Nation shared the news of the passing of John Kinsel Sr., one of the last remaining Navajo Code Talkers, at the age of 107. Kinsel’s death leaves only two living Code Talkers, Thomas Begay and Peter MacDonald, both in their 90s, as the last surviving members of this remarkable group of indigenous heroes who played a crucial role in the Allied victory during World War II.
The Unbreakable Navajo Code
Kinsel was among the approximately 400 members of the Navajo Nation who used their native Diné language to develop an unbreakable code that allowed secure communication for the US military during the war. This ingenious code, which the enemy forces never managed to crack, proved instrumental in ensuring the success of American military operations in key battles such as Iwo Jima, Guadalcanal, and Okinawa.
A Humble Hero
Despite the immense importance of their work, Kinsel and his fellow Code Talkers remained unrecognized for decades due to the classified nature of their assignment. “Not even the Navajo Nation knew,” Kinsel revealed in a 2015 interview with The Guardian. It wasn’t until 1968, when the US military declassified the Navajo Code Talkers project, that Kinsel and his colleagues could finally be celebrated for their vital contribution to the war effort.
Beyond his legacy of a warrior, [Kinsel] was also a proud Navajo man who upheld the values of his heritage while serving his country with distinction.
– Navajo Nation Speaker Crystalyne Curley
Kinsel’s Service and Legacy
Kinsel enlisted in the US Marines in 1942, serving in the 9th Regiment and 3rd Division during the fierce Battle of Iwo Jima against Japanese forces. His work, along with that of his fellow Code Talkers, was essential in maintaining secure communications throughout the Pacific theater of the war.
Following the declassification of the Code Talkers project, Kinsel and his comrades received well-deserved recognition for their service. In 2001, the original 29 Navajo Code Talkers were awarded Congressional Gold Medals, and the story of their heroism gained widespread attention, even inspiring the 2002 Hollywood film “Windtalkers.”
Remembering an American Hero
Navajo Nation leaders paid tribute to Kinsel’s extraordinary life and legacy. President Buu Nygren learned of Kinsel’s passing from his son, Ronald, who shared a poignant statement: “What my father and the other Code Talkers accomplished changed the course of history and will always be remembered.” Ronald Kinsel emphasized his commitment to carrying on his father’s legend and greatness.
Delegate Carl Slater, representing Kinsel’s hometown of Lukachukai, Arizona, described him as “an American hero” whose “legacy is marked not only by his service but by his continued dedication to sharing the story of the Navajo Code Talkers with future generations.”
As the nation mourns the loss of John Kinsel Sr., his extraordinary life and the invaluable contribution of the Navajo Code Talkers to the cause of freedom will forever be etched in history. Their bravery, ingenuity, and unwavering dedication to their country and heritage serve as an enduring inspiration for generations to come.
