In Remembrance of His Service and Sacrifice on the 80th Anniversary of the Battle off Honshū Island
Eighty years ago today, Commander Dwight Lyman Johnson displayed extraordinary heroism during one of the most harrowing naval engagements of World War II. At just 30 years old, he earned the Navy Cross for his actions in the Battle off the southern coast of Honshū, Japan, on March 19, 1945.
Then-Lieutenant Commander Johnson was the commanding officer of the destroyer USS Miller (DD-535) when the aircraft carrier USS Franklin (CV-13) was devastated by enemy attack. As the Franklin burned and explosions tore through her decks, Johnson maneuvered his destroyer alongside the stricken vessel, braving intense smoke and lethal danger to rescue the commander of his task group and other key personnel trapped on the Flag Bridge. He then transported them to safety aboard another carrier. Not stopping there, Johnson returned repeatedly to the Franklin, placing the Miller alongside her to rescue additional crew members and assist in firefighting efforts.
His gallantry and decisive leadership under fire earned him the Navy Cross and reflected the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.
Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Johnson was the youngest of twelve children. He entered the U.S. Naval Academy in 1933 and was commissioned in 1937. Over the course of a 25-year career, he served aboard battleships, cruisers, and destroyers, participating in twelve major naval engagements. He survived the attack on Pearl Harbor aboard the USS Oklahoma, and later fought in the Battles of the Coral Sea, Midway, and the Komandorski Islands. His command of the Miller included six more critical battles in the Western Pacific.
In addition to the Navy Cross, Johnson was awarded the Bronze Star, Silver Star, and a Unit Commendation. His post-combat contributions included service as an instructor at the U.S. Naval Academy, curriculum development at the Naval War College, and studies at the British Joint Service Staff College. His final assignment was with NATO at SHAPE headquarters in Paris, serving as strategic plans and operations officer to the Navy’s SACEUR representative.
Forced into early retirement in 1958 due to rheumatoid arthritis, Rear Admiral Johnson returned to Coronado, California, where he remained an active figure in educational and civic life. He served as a board member of the Parent-Faculty Association of St. Michael’s School in Newport, directed fundraising for the Paris American Schools PTA, and was a member of the Coronado Unified School District’s curriculum survey committee.
Rear Admiral Dwight L. Johnson was more than a decorated naval officer—he was a leader, educator, and community servant whose legacy endures in both military and civic life. His valor during the rescue of the USS Franklin would go on to inspire the 1949 film Task Force, a reminder of the vision and courage of those who quietly shaped history.
Today, on the 80th anniversary of his most heroic act, we remember and honor Rear Admiral Johnson’s life of service, sacrifice, and enduring impact.
