Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Sergeant

Unit:

Company I, 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division "The Silent Second", U.S. Marine Corps

Awarded on:

March 24th, 1944

Citation:
"For extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty while serving as a Squad Leader in Company I, Third Battalion, Second Marines, SECOND Marine Division, during action against enemy Japanese forces at Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, Gilbert Islands, on 20 November 1943. Detecting an imbedded, well-camouflaged enemy tank obstructing the advance of his squad and inflicting heavy casualties on his company, Sergeant Johnson valiantly risked his life in an effort to neutralize the hostile weapons. Crawling through withering fire, he successfully gained the turret and, after dropping a grenade within the enclosure, closed the hatch and sat on it until the ensuing explosion put the tank out of action. His brilliant initiative, daring aggressiveness and inspiring devotion to duty in the face of grave peril enabled our forces to move forward and deliver a devastating blow to opposing forces and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service. He gallantly gave his life for his country."

Awarded posthumously awarded.
Authority: Board of Awards: Serial 917 (March 24, 1944).