Fallen Dragon Memorial: CPL Charles L. Johnson

CPL Charles L. Johnson

REPOST: Though a member of the 1-14th, CPL Johnson was still a Golden Dragon. And earned a Distinguished Service Cross in Korea. I will let his award citation speak for itself and his actions:

The President of the United States of America, under the provisions of the Act of Congress approved July 9, 1918, takes pride in presenting the Distinguished Service Cross (Posthumously) to Corporal Charles L. Johnson (ASN: US-53064153), United States Army, for extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy of the United Nations while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion, 14th Infantry Regiment, 25th Infantry Division. Corporal Johnson distinguished himself by extraordinary heroism in action against enemy aggressor forces at Sanae-dong, Korea, on 29 May 1953. On that date, the 3d platoon, spearheading an assault against "Carson Outpost," was pinned down by heavy concentrations of mortar fire and suffered numerous casualties. Constantly vulnerable to withering fire and bursting shells, Corporal Johnson moved fearlessly about the impact area comforting and ministering to the wounded, and assisted aidmen in adjacent platoons in treating and evacuating casualties. As enemy action increased in tempo and fury, fragments from a mortar burst struck him and completely blinded him. Although dazed, shaken, and unable to see, he pursued his heroic task and crawled among his comrades, attending their needs and offering words of encouragement until he was morally wounded.

​General Orders: Department of the Army: General Orders No. 84 (November 3, 1953)

Action Date: 29-May-53

Service: Army

Rank: Corporal

Company: Company B

Battalion: 1st Battalion

Regiment: 14th Infantry Regiment
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Division: 25th Infantry Division

​CPL Johnson's actions to help save his brothers in the face of his own imminent demise go above and beyond the call of duty and set an example that all current and future Dragons should strive for if unfortunately faced with similar circumstances. His bravery shall never be forgotten.

He more than earned his place at The Right of the Line.