REAR ADMIRAL DWIGHT L. JOHNSON, for extraordinary heroism as Commanding Officer of the U.S.S. Miller, in action against enemy Japanese forces off the Southern Coast of Honshu, Japan, on March 19, 1945. When an aircraft carrier was set ablaze by enemy action, Commander (then Lieutenant Commander) Johnson maneuvered his destroyer alongside the carrier and, despite intense smoke and grave danger from explosions, rescued the Commander of his task group and several key personnel trapped on the Flag Bridge, transporting them to another carrier. Returning to the stricken vessel, he repeatedly placed his ship alongside her to rescue trapped personnel and to fight fires. His gallant conduct and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.

RADM. Johnson was a life member.