Meth-Wick resident Don Johnson, a veteran of the United States Navy, was recently recognized by the Cedar Rapids- and Iowa City-area Veterans Affairs (VA) in honor of his 107th birthday.
The event was held on May 22nd at Meth-Wick Community, where Johnson was presented with a plaque with a special coin from the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Denis McDonough.
Don is the oldest Veteran in the Iowa City VA system. He joined the Navy in 1941 and served during World War II from January 1943 to December 1945, passing through the ranks to First Lieutenant.
The plaque presented reads:
“On behalf of the Department of Veterans Affairs it is my pleasure to wish you a very happy and special 107th birthday thank you for your service in the United States Navy during World War II. Our nation is grateful to you and to your generation for helping defend democracy and shape the world we live in today. As you receive your many birthday greetings and congratulations, please know that this sacrifice you have made, and the accomplishments of your military career are held in the highest esteem. I join your VA healthcare professionals, family, and friends in celebrating your life and your service to America. please accept my coin as a token of your appreciation. We feel honored to be served by you.”
Johnson’s son, Peter Johnson, was in attendance, along with his VA Healthcare team, Meth-Wick Community employees and friends. Peter shared the following about Don’s service:
“Toward the end of World War II, he was captain of a Yard Patrol boat. These boats patrolled the coast along the United States, looking for German submarines. Dad said his boat patrolled the waters outside of Chesapeake Bay. In addition to searching for submarines, he and the crew also guided Navy and civilian boats away from the mines the US Navy had planted at the entrance to the bay. He received orders to leave for the Pacific Theater on the USS Iowa, but the war ended before the boat embarked on the voyage across the Pacific.”
Don has been a Cedar Rapids resident for 75 years and has lived at Meth-Wick Community since 1997.
Thank you for your service, Don! We’re all proud to know you and grateful to have you as a friend and neighbor at Meth-Wick.