Willard Varnell Oliver facts for kids
Willard Varnell Oliver (born May 2, 1921 – died October 14, 2009) was an amazing American hero. He served in the United States Marine Corps during World War II. Willard was a special kind of soldier known as a Navajo Code Talker. These brave men used their native Navajo language to send secret messages. This helped the United States and its allies confuse Japanese forces in the Pacific Ocean. Willard's younger brother, Lloyd Oliver, was also a Navajo Code Talker. Their parents were Howard and Olive (Lee) Oliver.
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Growing Up and Joining the Marines
Willard Oliver grew up in a quiet area between Shiprock and Farmington, New Mexico. He finished high school at the Shiprock Agricultural High School in 1940. When World War II was happening, Willard decided to join the fight. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on March 23, 1943. He served with the 2nd Marine Division. After helping his country, he was honorably discharged on December 11, 1945. This means he completed his service with great respect.
The Secret Language of War: Code Talkers
During World War II, it was very hard to send secret messages. Enemies could often break codes and learn important plans. The United States military needed a code that no one else could understand. They found the perfect solution in the Navajo language.
The Navajo language is very complex and was not written down. Very few people outside the Navajo Nation knew how to speak it. This made it an ideal secret code. Navajo men, like Willard Oliver, were recruited to become "Code Talkers." They would translate messages into their language and send them over radio. Then, another Navajo Code Talker would translate them back into English. This system was incredibly fast and secure. It played a huge part in helping the United States win important battles in the Pacific.
A Hero Remembered
Willard Oliver passed away on October 14, 2009. He was 88 years old. He died at the Northern Arizona Veterans Affairs Health Care System Hospital in Prescott, Arizona. Willard was one of the last living Navajo Code Talkers. His passing was a sad moment for the Navajo Nation and the entire country.
To honor his service, Navajo Nation President Joe Shirley Jr. ordered that American flags on the Navajo Nation be lowered to half-staff. This is a special way to show respect for a hero. Willard Oliver's funeral was held on October 17, 2009. It took place in his hometown of Lukachukai, Arizona. He is remembered as a brave Marine and a vital part of World War II history.
