Army 1958 to 1982 

Awards & Recognitions: 

Bronze Star with clusters for valor, the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal, multiple Air Medals, Master Parachutist badge

Growing up, my fascination with the U.S. Army Rangers and paratroopers, fueled by countless hours spent reading library books, inspired me to join the service. 

Since retiring, I’ve stayed active in my community as the Head Starter for Bears Best Golf Course since 2002 and as a proud member of the Knights of Columbus, 4th Degree. 

The skills and lessons I gained during my military service have profoundly shaped my life. I believe in leading by example—never asking someone to do something I wouldn’t do myself. Trust in God and set a good example for your family, associates, and friends. The difference between a pat on the back and a kick in the rear is about 3 inches. All of us need both every day.

For young people considering enlistment, my advice is simple: do it. The experience will foster independence, confidence, and maturity that will serve you well.

Service: Navy 8.5 years

At the time of writing this article, Al was unavailable to share the details of his years of service. We contacted Al's daughter and Edinburgh resident, Lisa Johnson, for a few comments. Lisa shares:

I am both honored and proud of my dad’s service to our great country. He, along with his father, son, and brothers, all served in our armed forces. I love how dedicated he was and is to our nation. The sacrifice he made to leave his family behind to be on a naval aircraft carrier for a solid year when he had a 3-year-old and a newborn at home is exemplary. Our military is the backbone of our country. Our family has an unwavering love for our country and is grateful for those who have sacrificed so much.

1985-2020 Navy

Awards & Recognitions: 

Expert Rifle Medal, Expert Pistol Medal, Kuwait Liberation Medal, Navy Accession Training Service Ribbon, Deployment Ribbon (2 Awards), MOVSM, GWOT Service Medal, GWOT (Expeditionary) Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal (3 Awards), Afghanistan Campaign Medal (Phase II) (3 Awards), Southwest Asian Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Medal (2 Awards), Battle “E” Ribbon (4 Awards), Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy Unit Commendation Award (4 Awards), Joint Meritorious Unit Award (3 Awards), Navy Achievement Medal, Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy Commendation Medal (5 Awards), Air Force Aerial Achievement Medal, Air Medal (Strike Flight) (3 Awards), Meritorious Service Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal (3 Awards), Bronze Star, Legion Of Merit (2 Awards)

I am a patriot who loves the United States and our Constitution and believes it should be preserved!  I serve as the President of the Middle East Missions. I am a volunteer at the Trinity Center for World Missions. My family and I are members of Restoration Church. I am a Gwinnett County GOP member. Gwinnett County Poll Worker, Georgia 2A Member, and NRA Member

The Navy instilled in me to always know what is right and do what is right, regardless of what it costs you!

Army 2001-2014

Awards & Recognitions: 

Expert Field Medic, Respiratory Specialist, Meritorious Service Medal

I joined the Army a week after September 11th. I wanted to save lives. I come from a long line of family members who served, with my grandfather earning a Bronze Star for his actions in the Korean War and my mother having me while she was in the Air Force. I served three combat tours during my time in the service.

As an alumnus and contractor, I help with several non-profit warrior organizations. I also serve as a football, baseball, and basketball community coach. I own RIOR Wellness, a non-profit 501C3 organization. I share my purpose of fixing dysfunctional breathing post-COVID pandemic in all communities. My goal is always to seek more, do more, help more, and train more. It will pay off in the end, and you will leave a decent legacy in the process. 

Army 2016-2023

Awards & Recognitions: 

Army Achievement Medal Recipient

Since childhood, I have been enamored by the military and wanted to join its institution. I loved reading history as a child and learning about great generals and warriors who prevailed or overcame difficult situations. I remember watching war movies with my family, like “Saving Private Ryan” or “Band of Brothers,” in addition to documentaries on previous conflicts on the “old” History Channel. 

The military taught me that teamwork is essential. You have to rely on your buddies, and they are on you, especially in challenging situations. We’re in this together.  

I learned to communicate effectively, even when a lot was happening. One big takeaway was to make your point clear and simple. 

My job requires me to adapt to changing circumstances constantly. It is important to attempt to adjust to new events or, in the case of an attack, have a playbook or plan ready. I also have secondary and tertiary plans if something goes wrong; I used the P.A.C.E technique to plan appropriately. It signifies Primary, Alternate, Contingency, and Emergency. 

Joining the military comes with some great perks. You get paid to stay fit, work with top-notch gear, and learn to handle some serious equipment. Plus, it’s a fantastic chance to build a network. The experience you gain can help when transitioning to civilian life, opening doors to better-paying jobs.