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WWII Aviator Completes NYC Marathon at 96
10 Nov
Summary
- Marine aviator completed the NYC Marathon at 96.
- He flew over 100 missions in the Pacific during WWII.
- Mendes finished the marathon 16 times in his life.
Jonathan de Sola Mendes, a distinguished Marine Corps aviator, passed away on June 9, 2025, at the age of 104 in Manhattan. He was renowned for completing the New York City Marathon in 2016 at the age of 96, believed to be the oldest person to do so. Mr. Mendes, a veteran of World War II and the Korean War, participated in the marathon a reported 16 times, transitioning to walking in his final years.
During World War II, Mr. Mendes piloted over 100 missions in the Pacific, focusing on anti-submarine patrols. He later flew 70 missions in the Korean War, with his last sortie occurring just hours before the 1953 armistice. He also flew in a squadron alongside notable figures like baseball star Ted Williams and future astronaut John Glenn.
Mendes began distance running in the 1960s after giving up smoking. His marathon achievements and life of adventure gained him recognition within the senior running community. His death was confirmed by his lawyer, Steven Beispel.
