John Charles Bilenski was born on July 6, 1939, to John and Edith Bilenski. His home of record is Clifton, NJ. John graduated Clifton High School in 1956.

While still in high school, Bilenski joined the US Marine Corps on his 17th birthday.
Following graduation in 1956, he completed six months in the reserves and then began active duty. He received training as an electronics technician before being trained as an aerial gunner at flight school.

John married Jean O’Dell in early 1965 before leaving for his first tour of duty. During this tour, Bilenski served as an aerial gunner. He attained the rank of Staff Sergeant (SSGT).

Bilenski received orders in late 1967 for his second tour of duty and arrived in Vietnam in February 1968.

Bilenski was killed in action on July 3, 1968, when his helicopter crashed and exploded in Quang Nam. He is buried in Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Cypress, CA.

Sources: The Viet Nam Remembrance Committee & Clifton War Veterans Monument Committee and NJVVMF.
12/17/2024