Richard C. Johnson was born on August 19, 1915 in Las Vegas, N.M. He graduated from Texas A&M with a degree in agriculture and a commission as a 2nd Lieutenant through their ROTC program (1926). Johnson was called to active duty on February 1, 1942. After eight months service with the 82nd Division, Johnson was transferred to the 87th Mountain Infantry Regiment at Fort Lewis, Wash. where he served as commanding officer of several different companies, finally serving as Executive Officer of the 1st Battalion. He also participated in the invastion of Kiska Island and during combat operations in Italy. In June 1945, he transferred to the 85th Infantry Regiment before being released from active duty in December. Johnson received two Bronze Star medals, and attained the rank of Major.
From the description of Richard C. Johnson oral history, 2007 [videorecording]. (Denver Public Library). WorldCat record id: 778308529
