Dedicated to the men from this district who gave their lives in the World War, 1914-1918

Henry Johnson served with distinction in the United States Army during World War I, becoming a symbol of bravery as part of the first all-African American combat unit. While on duty in the Argonne Forest, he single-handedly repelled a German attack, engaging in close combat to defend his post. He inflicted significant casualties on the enemy and managed to save a comrade, sustaining numerous injuries in the process. His extraordinary actions gained national recognition through prominent media coverage.

Despite his heroism, Johnson’s post-war life was marked by hardship. He received commendations from the French, including the Croix de guerre, and later, posthumous recognition from the U.S. military, including the Purple Heart and the Distinguished Service Cross. A significant milestone was the awarding of the Medal of Honor in 2015. In a further tribute, a U.S. Army installation was renamed Fort Johnson in his honour, although this decision was later reversed.