Additional Coverage:
John Kinsel Sr., the last of the Navajo Code Talkers, passed away at 107. As a Marine in World War II, Kinsel played a crucial role in sending coded messages using the Navajo language, which helped the Allies secure victory.
Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren expressed condolences and praised Kinsel’s bravery and dedication. He ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff in his honor.
The Navajo Code Talkers, all members of the Navajo tribe, transmitted coded messages that even Japanese codebreakers could not decipher. Their contributions, using a language based on complex Navajo words, were essential in the Marines’ success in the Pacific.
Ronald Kinsel, John’s son, said his father passed peacefully in his sleep, waiting for the first snow. Kinsel dedicated his life to advocating for Indigenous rights and sharing the story of the Code Talkers with younger generations.
Kinsel’s passing leaves only two surviving Navajo Code Talkers: Peter MacDonald and Thomas H. Begay. Their legacy of bravery and innovation will forever be remembered.