I just returned from a memorial service for Major Harry C. (“Skinny”) Johnson, USMC which was held this morning at the Air Force Armament Museum, Eglin AFB, Florida. Although Id never met him, I thought it was important to attend this memorial for the last member of an historic unit from World War II. Major Johnson was the last surviving member of the famous Marine Fighter squadron (VMA-214) which flew in the Pacific theater during World War II under the command of Major Greg (“Pappy”) Boyington. Harry was born on July 4, 1921 in Atmore, Alabama and joined the Marines after the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. He was assigned to VMA-214 as a replacement pilot and flew the Vought F4U figher. In only 84 days in combat, the squadron set a record by destroying/damaging 203 enemy aircraft with 97 confirmed air-to- air kills. One third of the squadron members were aces. They also sank several transport and supply ships. Harry is credited with downing the last Japanese Zero destroyed by the squadron during World War II. The commander, Boyington, received the medal of honor and the squadron was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation. Harry also flew the F7F Tigercat in Korea. He died on during the night of December 3-4, 2014 in Destin, Florida where he’s resided for many years in retirement. Rest in peace, Harry. The Black Sheep squadron was originally called Boyingtons Bastards but was renamed -- reportedly directed to be renamed -- as the Black Sheep but retained the bar sinister on its squadron patch which is the heraldic depiction of bastardy.
Posted on: Sat, 20 Dec 2014 18:41:52 +0000