Navy Federal Credit Union

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 8, 1918 (amended by act of July 25, 1963), takes pride in presenting the Silver Star (Posthumously) to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Charles Leo Johnson (ASN: 0-5536778), United States Army, for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action while serving with Troop B, 3d Squadron, 4th Cavalry, 25th Infantry Division. First Lieutenant Johnson distinguished himself by heroic actions on 23 June 1967, in the Republic of Vietnam. At approximately 0930 hours while the first platoon was on a reconnaissance mission, the platoon was attacked by a Viet Cong force of unknown size firing anti-tank and automatic weapons. The fire came from well concealed firing positions in a densely vegetated woods on the platoon’s right flank. As soon as his platoon came under attack Lieutenant Johnson, the first platoon leader, directed his platoon into a flanking movement and charged the Viet Cong positions. While he was leading the assault, his armored personnel carrier received a direct hit from an anti-tank weapon and came under intense fire from automatic weapons and hand grenades. With his vehicle thus disabled and several members of his crew wounded, Lieutenant Johnson attempted to dismount his vehicle so that he could continue the assault when he was mortally wounded by an enemy hand grenade. Still responding to Lieutenant Johnson’s aggressive leadership, the first platoon continued its assault on the position until the enemy positions were silenced. Lieutenant Johnson’s aggressive reaction and outstanding leadership inspired his men and enabled them to rout a well entrenched enemy force. Lieutenant Johnson’s gallantry in action is in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflects, great credit upon himself, his unit, the 25th Infantry Division, and the United States Army.

Awards Received