Click on the banner to go back to the home page

Sgt. Henry Johnson: A Hero's Life

Prepared by Jack Urso, Technology Integrationist for the Virtual Learning Training Center.

In Albany, New York, there is a bust (a type of statue showing only the head and shoulders) of Henry Johnson in Washington Park as well as a street named Henry Johnson Boulevard. Henry Johnson was a citizen of Albany who fought in World War I. What did Henry Johnson do that people would want to name a street after him?

Statue of Sgt. Henry Johnson in Washington Park, Albany, NY

Task 1: Follow the Links

View the memorial stone under the statue of Henry Johnson.

Read a press release by New York Governor George Pataki about why he feels Henry Johnson deserves the US Medal of Honor.

Read an article by a high school student on who was Henry Johnson.

View a slide show about Henry Johnson's life.

Task 2: Study Questions

1) What did Henry Johnson do that was considered heroic?

2) What year was Henry Johnson awarded a Purple Heart for the wounds he recieved in World War One?

3) What happened to Henry Johnson after he came back to the United States after the war? Was he honored for his war record?

4) In your opinion, why do you think Henry Johnson has yet to be awarded the Medal of Honor?