Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Soldier’s Medal to Specialist Fourth Class William E. Johnson (ASN: RA-15459004), United States Army, for heroism at the risk of life not involving conflict with an armed enemy as a member of Company A, 97th Quartermaster Battalion, on 4 January 1966 near Hamburg, West Germany. Riding as assistant driver in the rear of a convoy, Specialist Johnson observed a 5,000 gallon gasoline tanker skid off the road and down an embankment. The vehicle’s engine and lights were still on and gasoline was leaking from the cracked tanker. At any moment a spark from the electrical system could have caused an explosion. The driver and assistant driver were trapped in the crushed cab of the tanker. Specialist Johnson leaped from his own vehicle and scrambled down to the aid of the trapped soldiers. Ignoring the threat of imminent explosion, he ripped open the crushed cab of the vehicle and pulled out the injured driver. Having helped the driver to a safe area, Specialist Johnson returned to free the unconscious assistant driver. He returned a third time to shut off the engine and lights to prevent an explosion. Specialist Johnson’s quick thinking and daring action in the face of great danger to himself was in the highest tradition of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and his unit.

Awards Received