Michael Bennet: “today we honor the life and heroic sacrifice of PFC John C. Johnson of Phoenix, AZ. He died on May 27, 2011, in Bayman…”

“today we honor the life and heroic sacrifice of PFC John C. Johnson of Phoenix, AZ. He died on May 27, 2011, in Bayman Province, Afghanistan, of injuries sustained when his mounted patrol received small arms fire. He was 28 years old. Private Johnson and his wife Jennifer were expecting a baby daughter at the time of his death. Private Johnson's parents remember him as a honest, affectionate son, and his wife remembers him as a dedicated husband and loving father. Growing up in Arizona's rugged landscape, he developed hunting and tracking skills that would later contribute to his resourcefulness as a soldier. Private Johnson enlisted in the Army in February 2010, commenting that he was committed to providing a better life for his family. He served in support of Operation Enduring Freedom as a member of C Company, 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 10th Mountain Division, based at Fort Drum, NY. His bravery and outstanding service quickly won the recognition of his commanders. Private Johnson earned, among other distinctions, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the NATO Medal. Mark Twain once said, ``The fear of death follows from the fear of life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time.'' Private Johnson's service was in keeping with this sentiment--by selflessly putting country first, he lived life to the fullest. He lived with a sense of the highest honorable purpose.…”