The -Navajo translator- who made it impossible for the Japanese army to crack the code during World War II dies at the age of 107

John Kinsel Sr., one of the last surviving Navajo Code Talkers, passed away at the age of 107 on October 19, as confirmed by both the Navajo Nation and the U.S. Marine Corps. The U.S. Naval Institute expressed their condolences on social media, honoring his remarkable contributions.

Buu Nygren, the chief of the Navajo Nation, praised Kinsel for his courageous service in the Marine Corps during World War II. He highlighted Kinsel’s selflessness and dedication, stating that Kinsel undertook significant missions as a Code Talker, fighting for all people during some of the war’s most challenging times.

Kinsel’s son, Ronald Kinsel, shared that his father passed away peacefully in his sleep. He remarked on his father’s long and fulfilling life, noting that Kinsel, along with fellow Code Talkers, helped change the course of history and will forever be remembered. Ronald expressed his commitment to sharing his father’s legendary story and great spirit.

During World War II, approximately 400 Navajo Code Talkers participated in Marine Corps operations, using their native language to transmit secure messages. The Navy noted that the Japanese never succeeded in decrypting Navajo communications.

Born in Lukachukai, Arizona, Kinsel served in the Marine Corps from October 1942 to January 1946 and participated in key battles, including Bougainville, Guam, and Iwo Jima. His exploits were later depicted in the 2002 film “Windtalkers,” directed by John Woo.

According to The Arizona Republic, with Kinsel’s passing, only two Code Talkers remain alive: Peter McDonald and Thomas H. Begay.