First Lt. John Wilkes of Clark, NJ: 1958 Service Remembered on Clark War Memorial

Clark is remembering First Lt. John Wilkes, a Clark resident who died in service on Oct. 9, 1958. Union County Life is sharing his story as part of local efforts to honor Clark’s fallen heroes, drawing on information provided by William Duffy and reported by TAPinto Clark.

Wilkes was piloting an F-100F Super Sabre jet on a training mission when the aircraft crashed in the Arizona desert. Military records list his death as “Died in Service-Non Battle.” He was buried at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery in Maricopa County, Arizona. His infant son, who was also lost, is buried with him. Wilkes was survived by his wife and parents.

Before entering the service, Wilkes lived on Madison Hill Road in Clark. His legacy extends beyond his military service. He is memorialized on the Clark War Memorial, which stands on the front lawn of Arthur L. Johnson (ALJ) High School.

On the anniversary of his death, Clark honors First Lt. Wilkes for his service and sacrifice to the nation and to the cause of freedom. Photographs of Wilkes were provided by William Duffy.

Find more Clark history, community stories, and local news on Union County Life.

Q: Who was First Lt. John Wilkes?
A: First Lt. John Wilkes was a Clark resident and U.S. Air Force pilot who died in service on Oct. 9, 1958.

Q: How did John Wilkes die?
A: He was piloting an F-100F Super Sabre jet on a training mission when the aircraft crashed in the Arizona desert.

Q: Where is First Lt. John Wilkes buried?
A: He is buried at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery in Maricopa County, Arizona, where his infant son is also buried.

Q: Where can I see the memorial to John Wilkes in Clark?
A: He is memorialized on the Clark War Memorial, which stands on the front lawn of Arthur L. Johnson (ALJ) High School.