Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Machinist’s Mate First Class

Unit:

USS Marblehead (CL-12), U.S. Navy

Awarded on:

October 8th, 1942

Royal Decree no. 6

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Machinist’s Mate First Class

Unit:

USS Marblehead (CL-12), U.S. Navy

"For extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty in action during the attack on the Light Cruiser U.S.S. MARBLEHEAD (CL-12), by Japanese enemy bombers on 4 February 1942. After assisting in the task of fighting fires, clearing wreckage and rescuing the wounded, Johnson proceeded aft to the wrecked steering engine room which was flooded shoulder deep with oil and water. There, in a space congested with machinery, the air foul with smoke and chlorine gas from shorted steering battery leads and surrounded by electrical fires, he worked tirelessly and unflinchingly freeing the jammed rudder and locking it amidships. His skill, tenacity and endurance together with an utter disregard for his own personal safety, contributed greatly to the saving of the ship for further war service and the saving of many lives. His conduct throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Navy of the United States."