Medal of Honor Monday: Marine Corps Sgt. James E. Johnson
Published 2024-12-02 12:38
Story by U.S. Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Kyle Jia
Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California
Marine Corps Sgt. James E. Johnson was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during the Vietnam War. Johnson, a member of the 3rd Marine Division, was killed in action on April 20, 1968, while leading his platoon in a fierce firefight against the North Vietnamese Army.
Johnson was born on July 25, 1943, in Jacksonville, Florida, and enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1964. He served as a machine gunner with the 3rd Battalion, 9th Marine Regiment.
In March 1968, Johnson and his platoon were engaged in a firefight near the village of Dai Do. Johnson, who was the point man, charged ahead without hesitation, firing his machine gun and throwing grenades. He cleared several enemy positions, enabling his platoon to advance.
As the battle raged, Johnson was struck by enemy fire and seriously wounded. Despite his injuries, he continued to lead his men. He called for an airstrike on the enemy positions, which helped to break the ambush.
Johnson’s platoon was able to withdraw from the battle, but he was left behind. Johnson fought until the end, even as he was repeatedly wounded. He was eventually killed in action.
In the days leading up to his death, Johnson’s actions had earned him the respect of both his fellow Marines and the enemy. The enemy forces, impressed by Johnson’s bravery and determination, released his body under a white flag. Johnson’s body was flown to the United States, where he was buried with honors.
Johnson’s courage and sacrifice were recognized with the Medal of Honor. The medal was presented to his widow, Mrs. Ruby Johnson, in a ceremony at the White House in 1969.
Johnson’s legacy continues to inspire Marines today. He is remembered as a courageous and selfless leader who fought to protect his fellow Marines. His name is inscribed on the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., and he is honored with a statue at the Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.
Medal of Honor Citation
The President of the United States in the name of The Congress takes pride in presenting the MEDAL OF HONOR posthumously to
SERGEANT
JAMES E. JOHNSON
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS
for service as set forth in the following
CITATION:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a Platoon Sergeant in Company I, Third Battalion, Ninth Marines, Third Marine Division, in action against the enemy in the Republic of Vietnam on April 20, 1968. Sergeant Johnson’s platoon was the lead element for his company which was the vanguard unit on a search and destroy operation. The platoon came under heavy machine gun, automatic rifle, and mortar fire from well-concealed enemy emplacements. The point man was wounded and Sergeant Johnson immediately rushed forward to take his place. He shouted encouragement to his men and, despite the murderous enemy fire, boldly charged into the teeth of the hostile positions firing his machine gun and throwing hand grenades. He succeeded in clearing his path which allowed his platoon to advance and occupy a more favorable fighting position. In the fierce fighting that ensued, Sergeant Johnson was struck by the enemy fire but refused to be evacuated. He continued to lead his men with such aggressiveness that the enemy was forced to withdraw. As the battle raged, Sergeant Johnson again exposed himself to the deadly hostile fire by running from position to position, encouraging his men and pointing out targets. He called for artillery fire on the enemy positions which effectively broke up their attack. Sergeant Johnson’s indomitable fighting spirit and dynamic leadership were an inspiration to his Marines and served to rally them to his side. His fierce determination in the face of the enemy onslaught enabled his platoon to withdraw from the perilous situation. During the withdrawal, Sergeant Johnson was again struck by hostile fire, but he continued to fight until he succumbed to his wounds. Sergeant Johnson’s heroic and selfless actions saved the lives of many of his men. His indomitable courage, fighting spirit, and unwavering devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country.
FOR THE PRESIDENT:
BY DIRECTION OF THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY
W. H. BATES
Secretary of the Navy
Medal of Honor Monday: Marine Corps Sgt. James E. Johnson
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