Sergeant receives Purple Heart

  • Published
  • By 621st Contingency Response Wing Public Affairs
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Staff Sgt. Mitchell E. Johnson, a Wing Operations Center Controller with the 573rd Global Support Squadron, received the Purple Heart from Gen. Darren W. McDew, Air Mobility Command commander, during a ceremony here, Oct. 15.

Johnson sustained a traumatic brain injury during his most recent deployment to Forward Operating Base Salerno, Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, when insurgents detonated a 2,000 pound  explosive device approximately 100 meters from his position during an attack on the base June 1, 2012.

Since the attack, Johnson has struggled with short term memory loss and concentration issues. He is currently undergoing treatment at David Grant Medical Center.

"We join the Air Force knowing full well that our life is on the line and hope that day never arrives," Johnson said.  "What was once safe to say that certain jobs are safer than others is no more.  Receiving a Purple Heart in my career field is unheard of, but my experience is a testament that the environment and mission are changing and this could happen to anyone." 

"I feel it's important to convey that this shouldn't hinder our job performance as it hasn't hindered mine," he added.

Lt. Col. Christopher Lambert, 573rd GSS commander, said he's proud to serve with brave Airmen like Johnson.

"It's an honor to serve with high caliber Airmen like Staff Sgt.  Mitchell Johnson... Men and women that are truly dedicated to an ideal bigger than themselves, Airmen that epitomize service before self, integrity, and excellence," he said.  "Staff Sergeant Johnson is that Airman."

The Purple Heart is a United States military decoration awarded to service members wounded or killed while serving on active duty.  It is the oldest military award  given to U.S. military members.