WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. - Willie K. Begay, a Navajo Code Talker who was part of the original group recruited to develop what became an unbreakable code that confounded the Japanese during World War II, has died. He was 88.

Begay, of Pinon, Ariz., died Monday after a battle with cancer , according to one of his daughters, Kristy Kescoli Begay.

The elite group of Navajo Marines transmitted messages in their native language. Begay served with the 3rd Marine Division and was overseas for 11 months.

In 2001, he received a Congressional Silver Medal in recognition of his service.