World War II
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Fallen
Minot
Circumstances:
From Death Certificate:
PFC Donovan Eugene Walton was on an authorized troop movement from Efate, New Hebrides to Munda, New Georgia. Enroute to Guadalcanal from Espiritu Santo, New Hebrides, the plane ran into bad weather and crashed into Marau Peak, Sandy Beach, Guadalcanal. The entire crew and eight passengers were instantly killed according to the testimony of the sole survivor: Martin S. Pelroy, Corporal of VMSB-241, FMAW, FMF. PFC Donavan died along with 13 other marines.
Buried at site of plane crash: Marau Peak, Sandy Beach, Guadalcanal, British Solomon Islands.
Received Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal and WWII Victory Medal.
He was survived by his father and 6 siblings.
Biography:
Born October 13, 1925, in Minot North Dakota (Ward County) to parent Ray H. Walton. Donovan Waltons mother passed away 4 years before Donovan's death.
Donovan moved with his father to Seatle Washington where he enlisted in the US Marine Corps reserve (November 5, 1942). He was called to duty the following week. After completing his boot camp training at San Diego California, he was transferred to the Marine Air Corps where he received additional training. He was sent overseas shortly after completing his air training.
9/30/2024: NDDVA was contacted by Fr. Ralph Talbot the nephew of Lt. john Talbot who died in plane crash with PFC Donovan Walton. Fr. Talbot is looking to write a book about his uncle and include information about those who perished with him.