In honor of Native American Heritage Month, the United States Marine Corps Birthday and Veterans Day, we honor John Kinsel, Sr., a Navajo Code Talker during World War II.
John Kinsel Sr., born in Lukachukai, Arizona in the Navajo Nation to Harvey Kinsel and Atta Chee Kinsel, dedicated his life to his family and heritage. He had a rough childhood, losing his father and younger brother at 2 years old. After finishing high school, Kinsel enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1942 during World War II.
WW II Navajo Code Talker
Young Navajos, including Kinsel, responded to the call for Code Talkers. They were a group of Native Americans who used their languages to create an unbreakable code for military communications. This code helped secure victory for U.S. forces in the Pacific Theater. Kinsel joined the second group of Navajo code talkers trained at Camp Elliott in San Diego, California. He saw action in some of the most intense battles, including Guadalcanal, Guam, Bougainville, and Iwo Jima. He was wounded during combat on Iwo Jima but continued to serve with bravery and dedication.
After the war, Kinsel returned to Lukachukai and built a home for his family. He remained a steadfast figure in his community, participating in local events and initiatives to preserve Navajo traditions and language. He inspired many with his enduring spirit and wisdom, becoming a symbol of bravery and cultural pride.
John Kinsel Sr. passed away peacefully at the age of 107, leaving behind a profound legacy of service, sacrifice, and love for his homeland.
To learn more about the life and legacy of John Kinsel, Sr., click here.