"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life above and
beyond the call of duty. Pvt. Johnson elected to sacrifice his life in
order that his comrades might extricate themselves from an ambush.
Braving the massed fire of about 60 riflemen, 3 machine guns, and 3 tanks
from positions only 25 yards distant, he stood erect and signaled his
patrol leader to withdraw. The whole area was brightly illuminated by
enemy flares. Then, despite 20mm. machine guns, machine pistol, and rifle fire directed at him, Pvt. Johnson advanced beyond the enemy in a slow deliberate walk. Firing his automatic rifle
from the hip, he succeeded in distracting the enemy and enabled his 12
comrades to escape. Advancing to within 5 yards of a machine gun,
emptying his weapon, Pvt. Johnson killed its crew. Standing in full view
of the enemy he reloaded and turned on the riflemen to the left, firing
directly into their positions. He either killed or wounded 4 of them. A
burst of machine gun fire tore into Pvt. Johnson and he dropped to his
knees. Fighting to the very last, he steadied himself on his knees and
sent a final burst of fire crashing into another German. With that he
slumped forward dead. Pvt. Johnson had willingly given his life in order
that his comrades might live. These acts on the part of Pvt. Johnson
were an inspiration to the entire command and are in keeping with the
highest traditions of the armed forces."
From Pvt. Johnson's Medal of Honor citation, awarded on May 16, 1945.
May you be at peace,
Brian
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