"For conspicuous gallantry in action and intrepidity at the risk of his
life above and beyond the call of duty on 1 August 1943. Col. Johnson,
as commanding officer of a heavy bombardment group, led the formation of
the aircraft of his organization constituting the fourth element of the
mass low-level bombing attack of the 9th U.S. Air Force against the
vitally important enemy target of the Ploesti oil refineries. While
proceeding to the target on this 2,400-mile flight, his element became
separated from the leading elements of the mass formation in maintaining
the formation of the unit while avoiding dangerous cumulus cloud
conditions encountered over mountainous territory. Though temporarily
lost, he reestablished contact with the third element and continued on
the mission with this reduced force to the prearranged point of attack,
where it was discovered that the target assigned to Col. Johnson's group
had been attacked and damaged by a preceding element. Though having
lost the element of surprise upon which the safety and success of such a
daring form of mission in heavy bombardment aircraft so strongly
depended, Col. Johnson elected to carry out his planned low-level attack
despite the thoroughly alerted defenses, the destructive antiaircraft
fire, enemy fighter airplanes, the imminent danger of exploding delayed
action bombs from the previous element, of oil fires and explosions, and
of intense smoke obscuring the target. By his gallant courage,
brilliant leadership, and superior flying skill, Col. Johnson so led his
formation as to destroy totally the important refining plants and
installations which were the object of his mission. Col. Johnson's
personal contribution to the success of this historic raid, and the
conspicuous gallantry in action, and intrepidity at the risk of his life
above and beyond the call of duty demonstrated by him on this occasion
constitute such deeds of valor and distinguished service as have during
our Nation's history formed the finest traditions of our Armed Forces."
From Col. Jonson's Medal of Honor citation, awarded on 7 September 1943.
May you be at peace,
Brian & Mel
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