Samuel Robert Johnson, 1930-2020

摘要

Samuel Robert Johnson, who represented Texas in the House of Representatives for 28 years, was the last Korean War veteran to serve in Congress, and was a Prisoner of War in North Vietnam for seven years, died May 27 at age 89. Johnson was born in San Antonio and grew up in Dallas. While at Southern Methodist University, he joined the ROTC. Activated for Korea, he earned his wings shortly after earning his business degree in 1951. He flew F-86s out of Suwon, Korea, achieving one kill-a MiG-15-over the Yalu River in May 1953. Nearly out of gas, he glided some 80 miles to Kimpo Air Base, landing just before flaming out. He flew 62 total missions in Korea, and was also credited with one probable MiG kill and one damaged. Johnson ranks among the few members of Congress to have fought in combat. During 29 years in the Air Force, he flew combat missions in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars, receiving two Silver Stars and one Bronze Star Medal with Valor, among numerous other awards. He endured nearly seven years as a POW in Hanoi.