William S. Johnson

Era: World War II

Military Branch: Army

William S. Johnson of Soudan, Minnesota was inducted into the Army on February 27, 1944.

He served as a Technician 5th Grade and radio operator with Company F of the  88th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron (M) in Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes and Central Europe. He was wounded in action on December 12, 1944.

In his words, "After war was over in Europe, I was stationed in Germany (Bavaria). I played accordion in a small regimental dance band, entertaining G.I.s at company dances."

Mr. Johnson was awarded the: Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman Badge, Good Conduct Medal, European-African-Middle East Campaign Medal with five bronze battle stars, American Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, and three overseas service bars.

He was honorably discharged on November 19, 1945 at Camp McCoy, Wis.

Source: Hometown Heroes: The St. Louis County World War II Project. 135.

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