Installation Renamings: The Story of Sgt. Henry Johnson

Fort Polk is now officially known as Fort Johnson, bringing the Louisiana Army post’s more than 80 years under its former name to a close.

The installation’s new moniker honors World War I Veteran and National Guardsman Sgt. Henry Johnson, who, while serving in France, fought off a German raiding party with a knife, saving a fellow Soldier from capture in the process.

Born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, in 1882, Johnson enlisted on June 5, 1917, just two months after the United States entered the war and at a time when the U.S. military was still segregated. He was assigned to Company C, 15th New York (Colored) Infantry Regiment, an all-Black National Guard unit that would later become the 369th Infantry Regiment.

On May 18, 1918, while on outpost duty, Johnson and fellow Soldier Needham Roberts were attacked by a raiding party consisting of about three dozen German troops. Roberts was knocked unconscious, and Johnson fired the three extant rounds in his rifle. Left to fight the enemy with only the butt of his rifle, grenades, his fists and a bolo knife, Johnson killed four of the German Soldiers, leading the rest to retreat.

Johnson, who sustained 21 wounds during the raid, was praised for his heroism in France, becoming one of the first Americans to receive the country’s highest award for honor, the Croix de Guerre avec Palme. He was also greeted with a parade in New York City upon his return to the United States in February 1919.

The U.S. military did not formally recognize Johnson’s efforts until more than 65 years after his death, awarding him the Purple Heart in 1996 and Distinguished Service Cross in 2002. He was also awarded the Medal of Honor in 2015.

In addition to the efforts of the Central Region, preparing the Fort Johnson Exchange for the name change affected nearly every directorate, including IT, MD, FA, Corporate Communication and more.

“The Exchange is honored to recognize Sgt. Johnson’s heroism and to be a part of this historic moment,” said General Manager Tammar Tracey. “Sgt. Johnson exemplifies the kind of heroism that makes the Exchange’s mission to serve those who serve so fulfilling. We look forward to continuing the high level of service we have always provided this community as the Fort Johnson Exchange.”