WB Walter M. Johnson passed away on November 28, 2008 and a Memorial Service for him was held at the Chapel of the Rising Sun, Negishi on December 9, 2008. Included in the programme of the Service was the following biography:
Mr Walter M. Johnson was born September 7th, 1913 in Flushing, New York.
He worked as a licensed mortician prior to his military career.
He was drafted into the United States Army on 14 July 1942.
He attended Basic Training in Camp Wheeler, Georgia where he trained as an Army Infantryman.
Private Johnson was immediately sent to the Pacific Theatre of Operations. He served in the Manning Islands, Solomon Islands, Guadalcanal and many other battles whose names have been immortalized in history. He worked tirelessly to prove himself and fight his way through the ranks to Sergeant, an achievement not so easily obtained by an African American in 1945.
Sergeant Johnson returned to the United States after the Second World War. He maintained strong ties with the military and served as a U.S. Army reservist until the Korean conflict ignited in 1950. He immediately re-enlisted for active duty and served the Army once again in the Pacific Theatre of Operations.
Master Sergeant Johnson retired from the U.S. Army in 1967, with over 22 years of service.
Master Sergeant Johnson met his wife Hiroko while living here in Yokohama and they enjoyed a rich life together for over fifty years. They have one son who resides in the United States.
Master Sergeant Johnson was a member of the New York State Mortuary Society, an honored Mason and active member of the VFW who has served as VFW Post 9467's Post Commander on three separate occasions.
He was a guest speaker at the 24th Negishi Friendship Day's opening ceremony held on 14 June 2008.
WB Walter joined Far East Lodge No. 1 in 1996 and was raised in the following year. The deep impression he left on everyone he met, and the encourgement he gave to new members of the Lodge, will never be forgotten. Although he has been raised to the Great Celestial Lodge above, he remains in the hearts and minds of all Brethren of Far East Lodge No. 1 who continue their labors in this subluminary sphere.
WB Walter, may you rest in peace.