photo #8362166

For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty, Private First Class. Johnson served as a reconnaissance scout with Company A during Operation Rock. While manning an observation post on Hill 146, his patrol was attacked by a platoon-size enemy force. When a grenade landed in his fighting hole, Private First Class Johnson shouted a warning and threw himself on it, absorbing the blast and sacrificing his life to save a fellow Marine. His heroic actions prevented enemy advancement and reflect the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and U.S. Naval Service.