In Mississippi and across the United States, Americans have answered the call to defend our country. They left their families to fight in distant lands, knowing they may never see their loved ones again. Still, they marched onward with great resolve. These men and women are Heroes. In this newsletter, I am honored to highlight the service of Vietnam Veteran Johnny Johnson.
Johnny Johnson arrived in Vietnam in December 1969. He was the only Mississippian on the bus that day, which caught the attention of the sergeant in charge of duty assignments - a man from Philadelphia, Mississippi. Rather than report to the jungle, Mr. Johnson was given supply duty. "The enemy always wanted to interrupt the supply line," Mr. Johnson said. "We were always shot at. There were 27 men assigned to run supplies, and only six made it back home." Mr. Johnson said God was watching over him during his time in Vietnam and his newfound friend from Mississippi.
During a long and distinguished career, which included service in both the Mississippi Army National Guard and the U.S. Army Reserve, Johnson rose to the rank of Command Sergeant Major (CSM). In civilian life, CSM Johnson served as a mathematics teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent of education for the Columbus Municipal School District. In retirement, he is enjoying life with his wife, Fairie Lawrence-Johnson, their two children, and seven grandchildren.
