Rodney L. Johnson

Brig. Gen. Rodney L. Johnson, a retired senior officer of the US. Army and member of Post 543 in Saint James, N.C., passed away Dec. 24, 2023. Gen. Johnson was born in Atkinson, Neb., and raised in the rural area of Burke, S.D. He graduated from South Dakota State University in May 1977, and subsequently received a Reserve Army commission as a second lieutenant in the Military Police Corps. Gen. Johnson had a bachelor of science degree in sociology from South Dakota State University; a master of science degree in police science and public administration from Wichita State University; and a master of science degree in national security strategy from the National War College. His military education included the MP Officer Basic Course, the MP Officer Advanced Course, the Combined Arms Services Staff School, the Command and General Staff College, the DoD Emergency Preparedness Course and the National War College. He was also a graduate of the FBI National Academy.

Decorations and awards include:
Army Distinguished Service Medal
Légion of Merit (with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters)
Defense Meritorious Service Medal
Meritorious Service Medal (with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters)
Army Commendation Medal (with 2 Oak Leaf Clusters)
Army Achievement Medal, Parachutist Badge, Army Staff Identification Badge, National Defense Service Medal (Bronze Star), Humanitarian Service Medal, Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal (OLC), Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Medal, Airborne Wings. Additionally, he wore the Joint Meritorious Unit Award (OLC), the Army Superior Unit Award (OLC) and the Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Commendation; and was an MPOA Distinguished Honor Graduate, USAMPS Distinguished Instructor, CGSC Military Police Honor Graduate and recipient of the Military Police Regimental Association’s Order of The Mare Chaussee. Rod was instrumental and very active within the Legion post as chairperson for the Military Appreciation Day event, in which the post is able to provide active-duty families time to rest and recreate at no cost to them.