WWII Veteran John Quinesso Celebrates 100th Birthday Aboard Historic Battleship New Jersey
John "Johnny Q" Quinesso Sr., a distinguished World War II Navy veteran, marked a remarkable milestone on Thursday as he celebrated his 100th birthday aboard the Battleship New Jersey in Camden. Surrounded by friends, family, and the ship's storied legacy, the lifelong South Jersey resident was honored with a special luncheon and recognition ceremony on the nation's most decorated battleship.
A Life Defined by Service and Dedication
For Quinesso, this celebration transcends mere longevity; it embodies a lifetime of unwavering service that began during the war and continues to this day. After serving three years in the South Pacific as a Radioman 2nd Class, he has dedicated over two decades as a volunteer at the Battleship New Jersey Museum, passionately sharing his experiences with students and visitors from around the globe.
"I call the Battleship New Jersey my second home," Quinesso remarked. "I've been a tour guide here for over 20 years. It's one of the most wonderful things I've ever done in my life." His mission extends beyond historical education; he aims to impart the profound cost of freedom, emphasizing that without such vessels, the foundation of liberty might never have been built.
From War Hero to Museum Educator
Quinesso's journey into service began in 1943 when, at just 19 years old, he joined the Navy straight out of high school. Trained as a radio operator, he served aboard the LSM-302, a medium landing ship that delivered troops, tanks, and supplies to beaches across the Pacific, including Wake Island, Guam, Okinawa, and Saipan during some of the war's most intense fighting.
One pivotal moment remains etched in his memory: while standing the midnight watch off the coast of Guam, he received a transmission announcing Japan's surrender. "The message read, 'The Japanese had surrendered. The war is over,'" he recalled. "I ran right down to the captain and banged on his door." The ensuing celebration among the crew, marked by tears and embraces, stands as his most glorious memory, feeling as vivid as yesterday.
After the war, Quinesso built a 43-year career as an IRS agent, but his calling to service reignited when the Battleship New Jersey reopened as a museum in 2001. Since then, he has devoted himself to educating future generations about sacrifice, service, and history, ensuring that the lessons of WWII are not forgotten.
Honoring a Legacy for Future Generations
Marshall Spevak, CEO of the Battleship New Jersey Museum, highlighted the significance of Quinesso's presence as time distances us from WWII. "There's still a certain reverence when you talk to a World War II veteran," Spevak noted. "There will only be a few more years where we have World War II vets in this world. That's why it's so important that we continue to tell their stories so their legacy lives on."
At 100, Quinesso remains sharp, warm, and quick with humor, often telling students that his service transformed him from a young boy into a grown man. During the recent ceremony, he was awarded New Jersey's Distinguished Service Medal, the state's highest military honor. While this recognition is meaningful, Quinesso finds the greatest reward in being aboard the ship, sharing stories, and connecting with people, a testament to his enduring spirit and commitment.
