Johnson, Michael Edward
Male
Verified First Lieutenant Michael Edward Johnson, 25, of Virginia Beach, Virginia, was a U.S. Marine serving with 7th Communications Battalion, 3rd Marine Headquarters Group. He died in Kunar Province, Afghanistan, on September 8, 2009.
Their Story
Michael Edward Johnson was a 25-year-old native of Virginia Beach, Virginia. He served as a First Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps, assigned to the 7th Communications Battalion, 3rd Marine Headquarters Group, based in Okinawa, Japan.
On September 8, 2009, Johnson was killed in Kunar Province, eastern Afghanistan. According to the Defense Casualty Analysis System, his death was the result of hostile action. The Department of Defense did not release further specifics on the incident in its initial announcement.
Johnson died during Operation Enduring Freedom, the U.S.-led military campaign in Afghanistan that began in October 2001. By 2009, the conflict's focus had shifted to counter-insurgency operations in provinces like Kunar, where Taliban and other militant forces were active. The period was marked by increased use of improvised explosive devices and direct engagements.
The Marine Corps confirmed Johnson's death the following day. He was one of several U.S. service members killed in Afghanistan during that week. His remains were returned to the United States for burial.
First Lieutenant Johnson's name is inscribed on the Afghanistan War Memorial at the Marine Corps Museum and is listed on online memorials for fallen service members. He was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart.
Explore Further
First Lieutenant Johnson was killed during Operation Enduring Freedom (2001–2014). The conflict concluded in December 2014. See the full roster of those killed in this conflict.
Among those documented in the same conflict: Andrews, Evander Earl, Edmunds, Jonn Joseph, Stonesifer, Kristofor Tif, Davis, Bryant Leroy.
