Page 9 - Armed Forces Directory - Aberdeen Proving Ground

Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD

A Journey from Enlisted Soldier to Garrison Commander

A native of Wakefield, Virginia, Col. Johnson began his Army career in 1994,
enlisting fresh out of high school. Eight years later, after demonstrating exceptional
aptitude and leadership potential, he earned his commission as a Quartermaster
Officer through Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, Georgia. His academic
achievements include a Bachelor of Science in Business Management with a Minor
in Finance from the University of Maryland University College, and a Master of
Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College—the capstone of a professional
military education that also features the U.S. Army Command and General Staff
College and the Combined Logistics Officer Career Course.

Over the years, Col. Johnson steadily progressed through increasingly complex
roles: from platoon leader in supply and services to battalion commander, and
across multiple staff assignments in divisions spanning the globe. He commanded
the 54th Mortuary Affairs Company at Fort Lee, Virginia, served as Deputy
Director of Logistics for U.S. Forces Japan in Tokyo, and led the Army Field
Support Battalion at Fort Hood, Texas. Most recently, he served as the State
Inspector General for the Maryland National Guard, where he oversaw readiness,
accountability, and the welfare of Soldiers across the state.

A Leader Honored by Service

His distinguished record is reflected in a ribbon rack that includes the
Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal,
Joint Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Army
Achievement Medal—alongside the Air Assault and Parachutist Badges.
These decorations underscore both combat valor and sustained excellence
in staff and command roles.

Yet, Col. Johnson readily credits his teams. “Every assignment—from convoy
operations to the complexities of mortuary affairs—taught me one thing: mission
success depends on the soldiers beside you,” he says. “Their ingenuity, resilience,
and unwavering dedication are what truly earn the awards.”

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