Navajo Code Talker, who played crucial role in WWII, dies at 107

One of the last Navajo Code Talkers, who helped secure an Allied victory in World War II by sending crucial messages in a code based on the Navajo language, has died.

One of the last Navajo Code Talkers, who helped secure an Allied victory in World War II by sending crucial messages in a code based on the Navajo language, has died. 

Tributes from family members and local and military officials poured in for John Kinsel Sr., who died Saturday at age 107 and was hailed as a brave and accomplished man.

“On behalf of the entire Navajo Nation, our Navajo veterans and service men and women, First Lady Jasmine Blackwater-Nygren and me, we extend our sincerest condolences and prayers to the family of Mr. Kinsel,” Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren said on social media.

“Mr. Kinsel was a Marine who bravely and selflessly fought for all of us in the most terrifying circumstances with the greatest responsibility as a Navajo Code Talker. He fought alongside his brothers in arms, for the U.S. Marine Corps, for the United States and to protect the Navajo Nation in a time of war,” he added.

From right, Navajo Code Talkers John Pinto, John Kinsel, Sr. and William T. Brown at the Navajo Nation Code Talkers Day ceremony in Window Rock, Ariz., on Aug. 14, 2018.Mark Henle/The Republic / USA Today Network file Nygren ordered all flags on the Navajo Nation be lowered to half-staff Sunday for a week.

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/navajo-code-talker-played-crucial-role-wwii-dies-107-rcna176352

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