ATLANTA (June 10, 2014) | Today, Sen. Donzella James (D-Atlanta) held a commemorative ceremony to honor Private First Class Melvin Johnson, the first African American solider from Douglas County to lose his life in the Vietnam War. She was joined by members of his family has they dedicated the bridge on state Route 166 over Anneewakee Creek to be renamed in his honor.
“Pfc. Johnson made the ultimate sacrifice for his country during the Vietnam War in 1968,” said Sen. James. “At only 20 years old, he lost his life defending our American values and freedoms we hold so dear to our hearts. It has been an honor to work with the Johnson family to memorialize his memory so that all those who travel through Douglas County are reminded of his unyielding commitment to these United States.”
Pfc. Johnson was born to Loren Johnson on Feb. 16, 1949. He left behind brothers Willie and Tony Johnson as well as a sister, Vicki Johnson. His legacy lives on in numerous nieces, nephews and families members who still reside in Douglas County. His family members, along with the Black Education Historical Exhibit of Douglas County, were instrumental in working with Sen. James to ensure his legacy lived on through the dedication of the bridge over Annewakee Creek.
For Immediate Release:
June 10, 2014
For Information Contact:
Jennifer Yarber, Director
Adam Sweat, Communications Specialist
adam.sweat@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028