In 1943, Irvin W. Johnson, an 18-year-old senior at Fort Hill High School, received his draft notice for the U.S. Army. He quickly packed his bags and headed off for basic training. Assigned to the 87th Infantry Division, Johnson soon found himself in Europe, joining General George S. Patton’s army in November 1944. Irvin W. Johnson’s courageous actions in combat left a lasting impact on history.
During fierce fighting in France, Johnson and his division faced relentless German resistance near the French-German border town of Rimling. For nearly two weeks, the soldiers endured freezing temperatures, snow, and mud. Despite these conditions, Johnson pressed forward. The frostbite he suffered eventually led to the loss of both his legs below the knees, but it did not diminish his resolve.
Irvin W. Johnson’s bravery stood out during the Battle of the Bulge. Promoted to Staff Sergeant, he led his squad near the German border town of Kobscheid. His team found themselves pinned down by an entrenched German machine gun nest. Thinking quickly, Johnson directed his men to provide covering fire while he climbed the concrete bunker. He dropped a grenade inside, neutralizing the threat. A German lieutenant soon emerged and surrendered.
This remarkable act of valor earned Johnson the Silver Star. However, he didn’t receive the recognition until 2015, after decades of waiting. Retired Air Force Lt. Col. Bill Emmer, a close friend, made it his mission to ensure Johnson received the honor he deserved.
On October 4, 2015, the city of Cumberland, MD, declared “Butch Johnson Day” to honor his service. During this ceremony, Johnson finally received his Silver Star. Later that year, he was again recognized in front of 12,000 people at his local high school’s Veterans Day event.
In July 2016, Irvin W. Johnson received France’s highest honor—the National Order of the Legion of Honor. The French government named him a Chevalier (Knight), recognizing his role in liberating France during WWII.
Despite the numerous accolades and honors, Irvin W. Johnson remained humble. “I got called on to serve my country, and I did it,” he said. “Then I came back and got on with my life. That life has been a pretty good one, too.” Irvin W. Johnson’s story continues to inspire all who hear it.
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