James B. Johnson enlisted in the army in 1944 while studying civil engineering at the University of Arkansas. He served as a Lieutenant in the Pacific during WWII and earned numerous campaign medals. After the war, he stayed in the Army Reserve until activated for the Korean War in 1951. Johnson earned the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism and two Purple Hearts. Leading his platoon against North Korean forces, he protected his unit despite heavy casualties and was ultimately mortally wounded. His actions inspired his men to defeat the enemy, leading to his nomination for the Congressional Medal of Honor.