Gridiron to Gallantry
An academic exploration of a distinguished athlete's transition from professional football to heroic service in World War II.
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Profile
A Dual Legacy
Howard White "Smiley" Johnson (1916–1945) represents a unique intersection of American athleticism and military heroism. Known for his formidable presence on the football field, Johnson transitioned from a professional career in the National Football League to serve with distinction as an officer in the United States Marine Corps during World War II, ultimately making the supreme sacrifice.
Personal Chronology
Born on September 22, 1916, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Howard Johnson's life, though tragically cut short, was marked by significant achievements. He passed away at the age of 28 on February 19, 1945, during the intense Battle of Iwo Jima. His final resting place is the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, where he was interred on February 2, 1949, a testament to his enduring memory.
Collegiate Foundations
Before his professional endeavors, Johnson honed his athletic prowess at the University of Georgia. He played collegiate football for the Georgia Bulldogs during the 1937, 1938, and 1939 seasons, establishing himself as a skilled offensive lineman. His role as a guard was critical, demanding strength, agility, and strategic blocking to protect the backfield and open lanes for offensive plays.
Football
Professional Gridiron Career
Following a successful collegiate tenure, Howard Johnson joined the ranks of professional football. He played for the Green Bay Packers for two seasons, in 1940 and 1941. During this era, the Packers were a dominant force in the National Football League, and Johnson's contribution as an offensive guard was integral to their strategic play and protection schemes.
The Role of a Guard
As an offensive guard, Johnson's primary responsibilities included blocking for running backs and protecting the quarterback. This position demands exceptional physical strength, quick reflexes, and a deep understanding of offensive schemes. Guards are often at the forefront of the line of scrimmage, engaging directly with defensive linemen to create crucial openings and maintain pocket integrity.
Transition to Service
Johnson's promising professional football career was interrupted by the onset of World War II. In 1942, he made the profound decision to enlist in the United States Marine Corps, demonstrating a commitment to national service that superseded his athletic pursuits. This marked a significant turning point, shifting his focus from the competitive fields of sport to the battlefields of global conflict.
Military
Enlistment and Commission
Howard Johnson joined the United States Marine Corps in 1942, embarking on a new chapter of service. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming an officer and achieving the rank of First Lieutenant. His dedication and leadership qualities, likely honed on the football field, prepared him for the rigorous demands of military command during wartime.
Unit and Allegiance
First Lieutenant Johnson served with unwavering allegiance to the United States. He was assigned to I Company, 3rd Battalion, 23rd Marines, a component of the formidable 4th Marine Division. This unit played a critical role in the Pacific Theater, engaging in some of the most challenging amphibious assaults of World War II.
Service Football on Maui
Even amidst the preparations for war, Johnson's athletic talents found an outlet. While stationed in Maui, Hawaii, he played for a service football team. This provided a brief respite and a sense of normalcy for the troops, showcasing the enduring spirit of camaraderie and competition even in the shadow of impending combat.
Campaigns
World War II: Pacific Theater
First Lieutenant Howard Johnson's military career was defined by his participation in the Pacific War, a major theater of World War II. This brutal conflict involved intense island-hopping campaigns against the Japanese Empire, characterized by fierce resistance and challenging amphibious landings. Johnson's unit, the 4th Marine Division, was at the forefront of these critical operations.
Major Engagements
Johnson saw extensive combat across several pivotal campaigns in the Pacific. His service included participation in the Gilbert and Marshall Islands campaign, notably the Battle of Kwajalein. He then moved to the Mariana and Palau Islands campaign, fighting in the arduous Battles of Saipan and Tinian. These battles were crucial for securing strategic airfields and naval bases, paving the way for further advances toward Japan.
The Ultimate Sacrifice at Iwo Jima
On February 19, 1945, during the brutal Battle of Iwo Jima, First Lieutenant Johnson was killed in action by a mortar shell. This battle, known for its extreme ferocity and high casualties, claimed the lives of many American servicemen. Johnson was one of three former NFL players, alongside Jack Chevigny and Jack Lummus, who perished on Iwo Jima, underscoring the widespread impact of the war on American society.
Awards
The Silver Star
For his exceptional gallantry and intrepidity in action, Howard Johnson was awarded the Silver Star twice. The first was for his heroic actions during the Battle of Saipan, recognizing his bravery under fire. A second Silver Star was awarded posthumously for his valor during the Battle of Iwo Jima, a testament to his unwavering courage and dedication to duty until his final moments.
The Purple Heart
As a casualty of war, First Lieutenant Johnson was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart. This military decoration is presented to service members who have been wounded or killed in action. It serves as a solemn recognition of his sacrifice and the physical toll of his service in defense of his nation.
Enduring Legacy
Howard "Smiley" Johnson's legacy extends beyond his military decorations. "Smiley Johnson Field" on Maui was dedicated in his honor, a lasting tribute to his athletic and military contributions. His burial at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific further solidifies his place among America's heroes, ensuring that his story of courage and sacrifice continues to inspire future generations.
Legacy
A Symbol of Sacrifice
Howard Johnson's life and death embody the profound sacrifices made by a generation of Americans during World War II. His transition from a celebrated athlete to a dedicated Marine officer highlights a widespread national commitment to defending freedom. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the personal costs of global conflict and the diverse backgrounds of those who served.
Athlete and Warrior
Johnson's narrative is particularly compelling due to his dual identity as both a professional athlete and a combat officer. This unique combination underscores the physical and mental fortitude required in both arenas. His ability to excel in the demanding environment of the NFL and then demonstrate leadership and bravery in the Marine Corps speaks volumes about his character and resilience.
Historical Significance
The inclusion of Howard Johnson's story in historical accounts contributes to a richer understanding of World War II and its impact on American society. His experience, alongside other professional athletes who served and sacrificed, provides valuable insight into the era's collective spirit and the integration of civilian life into the war effort. His memory is preserved as a testament to courage and duty.
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