John Paul Swapinski
Era: World War II
Military Branch: Navy
SWAPINSKY, John Paul
John Paul Swapinski from Duluth, Minnesota was part of the 90th US Naval Construction Battalion during World War II.
The 90th “Constructioneers” were activated at Camp Peary on July 25, 1943. They shipped out and began their work on Oahu one day after the Pearl Harbor attack. They helped fortify the base and increase its future potential.
In the autumn of 1944 they participated in the Marine assaults against Anguar and Pelelieu. Later backing the Marines, the 90th was sent to Iwo Jima. While the battle raged the “Constructioneers” went ashore and dug in. 26 days after the Marines hit the beach one of the toughest bloodiest battles of the war was over.
The 90th made camp then on Iwo Jima, built ramparts and were privy to an up-close view of a great air offensive on Japan itself. They were subjected to intense heat, great downpours, air raids, uncomfortable foxholes and tasteless K and C rations all of which will forever be in their memories.
