Claude G. Johnson

Canfield, OH

U.S. Army – Korea

During the Korean War, wiremen were essential. Phones were the most secure way to communicate because the enemy could intercept radio transmissions, but not phone conversations. Wiremen were the soldiers responsible for constructing, operating, and maintaining the phone networks among various headquarters, outposts, and sometimes forward observers.

In addition to laying wire, they installed telephones and switchboards, operated the switchboards, kept the communications equipment working properly, and recovered the wire whenever possible. It was a challenging and dangerous job.

After being drafted in July, 1952, Claude Johnson completed basic training, then went to Fort Riley, Kansas, to be trained by the 10th Infantry Division as a wireman. He served with an artillery unit, which can involve the hazardous job of running wire from the artillery pieces to forward observers.

Claude was awarded the Korean Service Ribbon, the National Defense Service Medal, and the United Nations Service Medal.

 

Born: 18 March 1932, Detroit Michigan
Entered Military Service: 14 July 1952
Released from active service: 13 April 1954
Died: 27 September 1985