1st Lieutenant Michael Johnson’s story is one of dedication, bravery, and selflessness. From a young age, Michael displayed a strong work ethic. Alongside his twin brother, Dan, he held jobs at surf shops and swimming pools while attending high school. It was clear that Michael was no stranger to hard work and determination, traits that would define his life’s journey.
After graduating from high school, he ventured to Oregon, a place he grew to love. It was at Oregon State University that Michael’s path crossed with that of his future wife, Durinda, and their love story began to unfold. Inspired by his grandfather, Nathan Chase, who served in the Marine Corps, Michael made the decision to join the Marines, a choice that would further exemplify his commitment to serving others.
Shortly after graduating, Michael and Durinda embarked on a journey that led them to Okinawa in 2007, where he became a member of the 7th Communications Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force. Two months later he deployed to Afghanistan as a member of Embedded Training Team (ETT) 2-8.
The ETTs played a pivotal role in training indigenous military forces in Afghanistan, facing the daunting task with limited external support. In the early hours of September 8th, 2009, Michael Johnson and his 13-person team left the safety of their base at Camp Joyce in the Kunar Province to meet with elders in the village of Ganjgal, a mere six miles from the Pakistani border. Their mission was to combat the insurgents who were using Ganjgal as a way-station for smuggling weapons and fighters from Pakistan into Afghanistan.
Major Kevin Williams, the ETT commander, organized his team into four elements at the outskirts of the Ganjgal village. Lt Williams would lead the forward element of a dismounted patrol into Ganjgal while other members of the team would serve establish an overwatch position, a security element, and a quick reaction force. The patrol conducted final equipment checks and began the mile long patrol into the village.
The sounds of heavy gunfire broke the silence a few minutes later. Taliban fighters attacked the forward element with withering fire from elevated positions around the Marines. Lieutenant Johnson and his Marines found themselves in the midst of the intense firefight. Badly wounded, Johnson led his element out of the ambush and took cover in a trench next to one of the nearby houses.
He remained calm and resolute, directing the defense of their position against overwhelming enemy forces. Major Williams tried desperately to coordinate aviation or artillery support to effect a rescue, but his command denied all of his requests because of new engagement restrictions in place.
Michael and his Marines fought fiercely, suppressing enemy fire long enough for their Afghan partners to regroup with their main element. However, Michael’s injuries ultimately overcame him, and he succumbed to his wounds. A Marine from the ETT’s security element, Sgt Dakota Meyer, later fought his way into the kill zone to recover Michael’s body, along with the other Marines who had fallen alongside him. Sgt Meyer’s heroic actions that day earned him the military’s highest award for valor.
As we remember Michael Johnson, we honor a man who embodied the spirit of selflessness and sacrifice. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those who knew him, and his heroism continues to inspire us all. Michael’s unwavering commitment to duty, his bravery in the face of adversity, and his dedication to his fellow Marines and Afghan partners will forever be etched in our memories.
He stood as a shining example of honor, courage, and commitment, and his memory will forever serve as a beacon of inspiration to us all. 1st Lt. Michael Johnson was posthumously awarded a Bronze Star with combat distinguishing device for his heroic actions in the Ganjgal Valley, Afghanistan while serving with Embedded Training Team 2-8 and 1st Kandak, 2nd Brigade, 201st Corps, Afghan National Army,as an advisor and mentor. On Nov. 10, 2010 7th Communications Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force dedicated a conference room at Kelley Hall on Camp Hansen in his honor.
Rest in peace, Lieutenant Michael Johnson. Your legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of those you touched, and your sacrifice will never be forgotten. Semper Fidelis
“Johnson” Hero Crossfit WOD
Complete as many rounds in 20 minutes as you can of:
245 pound Deadlift, 9 reps
8 Muscle-ups
155 pound Squat clean, 9 reps
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