This Military Service Page was created/owned by
Tommy Burgdorf (Birddog), FC2
to remember
Johnson, William David, VADM USN(Ret).
If you knew or served with this Sailor and have additional information or photos to support this Page, please leave a message for the Page Administrator(s) HERE.
Contact Info
Home Town Montgomery Alabama
Last Address San Francisco, CA
Date of Passing May 26, 1967
Location of Interment U.S. Naval Academy Cemetery and Columbarium (VLM) - Annapolis, Maryland
US Navy Vice Admiral. Johnson graduated from the United States Navy Academy in 1921. Prior to the World War II Johnson was a Lt. Commander and commanding officer of Flight Squadron VP44-6 VPB as part of Patrol Wing Four. In World War II he was the recipient of the Navy Cross as commanding officer of the escort carrier U.S.S Suwanee CVE 27 for providing aerial support for amphibious attack groups landing on the shores of Leyte Gulf, Philippines during the final week of October 1944. He was seriously wounded in this engagement, but continued to operate his ship while directing numerous aerial strikes against the Japanese Fleet in the Gulf. During the Korean War he was a Rear Admiral who commanded Task Force 77 in 1953. Johnson retired as a Vice Admiral.
Other Comments:
Navy Cross
Awarded for actions during the World War II
The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Captain William David Johnson, United States Navy, for extraordinary heroism and distinguished service in the line of his profession as Commanding Officer of the Escort Carrier U.S.S. SUWANEE (CVE-27), while that vessel was engaged in furnishing aerial support to our Amphibious Attack Groups landing on the shores of Leyte Gulf, Philippine Islands, from 18 to 27 October 1944. With his ship severely damaged by enemy aerial attack during the Battle off Samar Island, on 25 October, Captain Johnson continued to operate his ship with outstanding professional skill, directing numerous vigorous aerial strikes against the Japanese Fleet in Leyte Gulf and thereby contributing to the extensive and costly damage inflicted on hostile surface units. Although seriously wounded, he skillfully maneuvered his crippled ship through hazardous submarine infested waters and effected a safe withdrawal from the combat area. By his forceful leadership, and superb tactical ability, Captain Johnson was in large measure responsible for the success of our forces during this decisive engagement and his steadfast devotion to duty throughout these hazardous operations was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.