Bob Johnson
(6 JAN 1931, 26 JAN 2003)
Bob Johnson Eulogies
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Mary Alice Johnson and the Ladies (2003)
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Mary Alice Johnson, daughter and grandchildren (2003)
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Doyle, Karam, Drummond, McCloskey, Reid, Malone, Sloan '96, Andrews
, Justin, Jim Ryan, Sloan, Johnson (Bob's son), Wray, Welter (2003)
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Bob Johnson's Funeral (FEB 2003)
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Mary Alice and Bob Johnson
c2003)
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Bob Johnson
c2003)
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Stephen Johnson (Bob's son) and Saina (31 DEC 2002)
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Bob Johnson, Jim and Ann Eddins
June 2002)
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Vitty, Ludwig (MAY, Lichtenberg
Joe Franklin, Bob Johnson, Bates, Wargowsky, Livesay
Founder's Day 2002)
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West, Bergen, Bob Johnson, Stocketts (2001)
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Wallwork '52, Doyle, Cutchin, Bob Johnson, Jim Ryan (2001)
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Bob Johnson, Boyd '46 (2001)
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Brown, Lynn, Strom, Bazilwich, Bob Johnson, Vitty
(45th Reunion, 2000)
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Bob Johnson, Cardillo, Patton
(45th Reunion, 2000)
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Haas, Bob Johnson, Cathey, Nordlie, Joe Franklin (2000)
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Bob Johnson (2000)
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| Row 8: Auer, McNair, Street, Wix, Row 7: Horst, Paul Parks, ?, Dugan, Grubbs, Domeck, Bliss, Row 6: Howie Stone, Newton, Booras, Strom, McDonald, Row 5: Fikaris, Schick, Gallup, Cardillo, Wheeler, Masson, Row 4: Katenbrink, Spellman, Joseph, ?, Schlotter, Row 3: Bergen, Fralen, ?, Andrews, Dunaway, Bob Johnson, Jim Ryan, Row 2: Bean, Strati, Soper, Jeter, Wiegand, Lenio, Price, Row 1: Prater, Thorsen, Meisenheimer, Reid, Zaborowski, Feagin, Joe Franklin |
(15th Reunion 1970)
Larger Size
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A - 1
1st Row: Chuck Martin, Munroe, DeLong, Bazilwich, Dulk, Vitty
2nd Row: Lewis, Greene, Herdman
3rd Row: Fred Johnson, Strom, Lynn
4th Row: Jerry Brown, Thomer, Bob Johnson (CO), Pearson
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I had the privilege of meeting Bob at the AOG Leader's Conference in 2001). I was at once struck by his dedication, candor, and spirit. He made time to talk to me about my role as the new president of the WP Society of Chicago and was kind enough to share some of his experiences with this "newbie." I send my heartfelt prayers to his family, that they (MAY take comfort in learning how well he was loved by so many. Deborah Somers '91 January 26, 2003) Bob was one of the true jewels we contributed to the Long Grey Line. His heart was greater than his tall stature. Doubt that we have more than he contributed. Bill Edwards January 26, 2003) I first met Bob in the boxing ring during our Plebe year. He was A-1 and I was B-1, so we shared many classes. From West Point days to now, we rarely agreed on issues, but I think we always respected each other. More often than not tho, from then to now, I was the one that ended up with the bloody nose. I just couldn't believe the message this morning saying he was gone. Agree with him or not, no one can ever say he didn't make you think. Agree with him or not no one can ever say he didn't love West Point. Agree with him or not, no one can ever say that they'll forget him. Agree with him or not, no one can ever say they won't miss him. My heart felt sympathy goes out to Bob's family and my prayers go out to Bob. As I'm sure he would say, GRIP HANDS! Carry on... Jack Campbell January 26, 2003) One of the keys to understanding what Bob Johnson treasured most about his love for USMA is simply stated below: Honor Many years ago, I came upon several honor documents involving WP. I can tell you personally that Bob Johnson took a personal interest in the discussions and debates that surrounded their online publication and subsequent discussion on the WP Forum many years ago. Like Bob Johnson, I have been a member of the WP Forum since the early days (1996). I used to be a frequent contributor, but my time available to post on the WP Forum has been reduced dramatically since my return to active duty and subsequent assumption of command of an aviation intermediate maintenance company here in Korea. This much I can say; Bob Johnson had a strong love for WP and duty, honor, and country. He was controversial in his posts and he got a lot of folks to think and question the status quo. That is a *good* thing. Be thou at peace... Paul Werner 83 January 26, 2003) Being at opposite ends of the lst Regt I didn't get a chance to know Bob during cadet days. I feel very fortunate that I got a second chance to get to know him much better on our class net. He was a REAL West Pointer. His thoughts and words were always about what is best for West Point. He will be missed. 'Well done thy good and faithful servant.' Robert B. Brown January 26, 2003) Bob Johnson was a member of WP-Forum since shortly after its inception. He himself remained a controversial figure, partly by design. A frequent burr under other Forum members' saddles, his was the stuff that lent color to what might otherwise have been just another stuffy soiree. I was privileged to meet Bob one day on West Point's Plain. Though more than four decades had passed since he'd trod there as a Cadet, his carriage remained tall and arrow straight, his eyes bright and knowing, his handshake firm. And his head bore his signature Billy Yank cap. I will miss his occasional firecracker tossed onto the dance floor. I will miss him. Dempsey Darrow USMA 1975), "Courage and Drive" Moderator, WP-Forum January 26, 2003) I knew Bob Johnson as a good friend. He lived not far from us near Fort Lee. Bob had very high standards and always tried to do the "right thing" and to help others do the same. He was President of our local West Point Society and had a deep love for West Point. He was a transplanted northerner who had a deep affection for the South. We are saddened by his parting. He will be missed. We pray for the peaceful repose of his soul. JIM RYAN January 26, 2003) I am so very very saddened by Bob Johnson's death. I didn't know him that well since A-1 and D-2 didn't get together too often, but we had a kinship in our New York roots, his from Manhattan and mine from Brooklyn. I guess I got to know him best at our 45th reunion and here on the internet. No one can claim to be a stronger supporter of what's best for West Point or for our country than Bob Johnson. I didn't always agree with him but I always respected him. He was outspoken when many of us shied away because we didn't want to make a wave but secretly hoped someone would come forth....Bob always did. I don't know why I cried when I read the notice and even now. Maybe because I know how much I'm going to miss him. Well done, Bob. Be thou at peace. Roy Roy Thorsen January 26, 2003) I never met COL Johnson in the physical sense, but I came to know him and respect him in the several years he and I participated in this Forum. I have never known a man to be more straightforward in his opinions, and more strong in his love for West Point and for the Honor Code. I am deeply saddened by his passing, and will miss his contributions. Well done, 20376, Be thou at peace. Douglas Dribben January 26, 2003) Bob, It saddens my heart that your voice has been silenced. I will miss your candid comments, well thought out responses to contraversial issues and the myriad bits of information you shared with the class and with me over the years. Rest quietly for now and say hello to Jack. To your family, I extend my deepest sympathy for your loss, Marlowe Marlowe Viney January 26, 2003) I knew Bob long before I met him. WP-ORG builds many relationship like this. I was a Spanish student in my WP days, and we'd a book with a line sketch of Don Quixote, black against an ivory page. When I finally saw Bob in the flesh, the image leapt to my memory! The tall, impossibly lean, angular frame, with a messianic focus on a goal beyond reach of mere mortals. Who else could he be? Filling in the portrait was his attentiveness to his Rosinante, an Army Mule. The last message in my folder to Bob, was sending a picture of him with his mule from our survey participant bios: http://www.west-point.org/service/consultant/bio/ . As much as Bob stood out from the crowd due to his height, he also stood out for his dedication to high purposes and willingness to be counted on un popular issues. He stood while others sat. We'll miss him on this end of the Long Gray Line file, but know he'll be waiting for us on the other end, with much to say! A good friend, long remembered, with a smile... Grip Hands! Jack Jack Price January 26, 2003) I first got to know Bob Johnson about 5 or 7 years ago when he joined a group of grads who were trying to change some practices at the AOG. We worked on a survey of grad's opinions,administered it, and presented the results to the AOG's Board of Trustees. Needless to say, some of the conclusions were not necessarily to their liking, but Bob, as one of the presenters, was direct and forthright as was his nature. Eventually, many of the items we recommended were adopted. Bob sent frequent messages about West Point and other items of interest to grads to the WP Forum. Some of his views were a bit controversal, but they always displayed a detailed knowledge of the Academy he loved, and always reflected his views in the best interests of his alma mater. In my opinion, Bob was one of the most honorable people I have ever known. He was not afraid to present a controversial view, not to be a bomb thrower, but because he truely believed it needed to be said and listeded to. No one can ever say that Bob was not a lover of West Point. (MAY you rest in peace, old friend. George Lawton January 26, 2003) An admirable voice for our Alma Mater. We have lost him too soon. Jack Cushman, '44 January 26, 2003) Colonel Bob Johnson was a tireless worker for West Point. I have associated myself in the past with many of his views on the modern WP. He was a true patriot who recognized the vital importance of a West Point which is the soul of the Army. We needed more like him! I echo Gen Cushman,- we lost him too soon. Richard V. Secord '55 January 26, 2003) Bob Johnson was certainly a patriot and strong supported of West Point. He stepped forwarded and volunteered to work on a very important survey of West Point graduates about 6 years ago. We met on the web and worked together on this endeavor for about 3 months. Then we went to West Point to tell the AOG and West Point what the grad community was thinking at that time. It was comprehensive to say the least. I knew little of Bob up to that point, but was glad for his tireless help and then humbled that he would drive to West Point to be with me at the briefing. A number of stalwart grads from the 50's supported this effort. No doubt he was outspoken and and forceful in his views, but he had a heart of gold and I was able to see some of his soft side. We have lost a strong member of the Long Gray Line. He has had a strong influence on West-Point.Org and helped shape our future. Rest in peace dear friend. Bob Magruder '64 January 26, 2003) A true son of West Point, loyal to the end. (MAY God Bless. Norman R. "Bob" Rosen January 26, 2003) I got to know Bob well during the past seven years when he and I heavily participated on WP-ORG Listservs. Bob's love for West Point exceeds all Grads that I have ever known, or ever will know. Bob's "Grip Hands" email signiture has now been adopted by many, many Grads. It was an honor to know you Bob, now rest in peace with God. Grip Hands, Bill Bill Welter January 26, 2003) Colonel Bob Johnson was the ultimate straight-shooter. He held nothing back in expressing his love for West Point and her ideals. I'll miss him and his honest, articulate insights. Be thou at peace, Bob. Well done! Wally Bransford, '74 West Point Society of Hampton Roads January 27, 2003) Johnson, Robert P. died January 26, 2003); retired United States Army Colonel, member of the West Point Class of 1955), President of the Lee-Grant Chapter of the West Point Alumni Association, survived by his wife Mary Alice, his daughter Dr. Valerie Tyson and son Major Stephen Johnson, his grandchildren Justin and Claire Tyson, his sister Helen T. Lowe, his son-in-law Dr. Daryl Tyson and daughter-in-law Sabina Johnson. A viewing will take place at the J.T. Morriss & Son Funeral Home at the intersection of Wythe St. and S. Adams St. in Petersburg from 7, 9 PM on Thursday, January 30, 2003). A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 1:30 PM on Friday, January 31, 2003) at St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Church, 151 W. Washington St., Petersburg, VA. Memorial Ceremony and Interment will take place on Monday, February 3, 2003) at 1:30 PM at the National Cemetery at the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to the Robert P. Johnson Scholarship Fund at All Hallows High School, 111 E. 164th St, Bronx, NY 10452." Johnson Family Service Information January 27, 2003) What a shock to hear that Bob's voice was stilled. He was brave enough to point out that the Emperor wasn't wearing clothes. And he was willing to take the consequences of those straightforward assessments in stride. West Point, the military, and the nation have lost a man who took seriously the concepts of Duty, Honor, Country; a man who expected those concepts to be the most vigorously defended at USMA. Bob was not afraid to address his concerns to those who fell short of the ideals he adopted as a Cadet since he saw no reason to feel that the passage of time should modify those concepts. Our Class Net will never be the same without him. Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Bob Wray '55 January 27, 2003) As I sit here writing these last words to you Bob,I still can't believe you're gone. We go way back, you and I, when we lived together in Central Area a few stoops from each other. You might say I always looked up to you. Then after graduation our paths separated only to return on the other side of retirement when we became close thru the miracle of email and our class get togethers and football.You became the Class conscience expounding on many issues involving the Class and others. In every instance you were outspoken to the nth degree and controversial to the end. But your concern for West Point and your Classmates came thru loud and clear every time and I for one will sorely miss you . Sleep well my friend and rest with the thought of a life "well done". I will see you on the other side. Tommy:) Tommy West January 27, 2003) To me, as apparently to everyone in '55, and many graduates outside the class, the abrupt loss of Bob Johnson came as a profound shock. Having been in K-1, in retrospect a "world away" from A-1, I never knew Bob as a cadet. And we went down separate roads on graduation, Bob in the Army, and I into the Air Force. Not once in all the years did our paths cross. What's more, even at reunions, we never became acquainted, or said a single word to one another. But I knew who he was when I saw him at the 45th reunion. Why? I pulled out the '55 Howitzer to remind myself of how he looked as a cadet, so I could recognize him at the reunion. Why? His strong voice of principled, persistent, reasoned argument for what he believed the Academy was, and ought to be, sounded through the '55 class nets, the West Point Forum, in his West Point Society, and on, even more strongly, into many other classes. Just a few days ago I had the pleasure of one of several e-mail exchanges we've had over the years since 1998), when intense debate began over how the class should represent itself with its gifts to the Long Gray Line. I'll save that most recent file. His relentless determination to, both in voice and action, "do the harder right" has shown like a beacon, telling of a true soldier who knew so well the institutions from whence he came, and which he so loyally served. So "Here's a nickle on the grass" from a fighter pilot. Sleep well Bob Johnson. I never knew you, but you caused me to hear you loud and clear. In memory, Bill McWilliams January 28, 2003) Unfortunately, I barely knew Bob when we were cadets. Just by reading his messages on USMA1955, however, I came to feel that I knew him well. He made me proud to be a classmate of someone that I perceive as a person of strength, principal, honor--and dedication to the nation, the Army and West Point. I shall miss his contribution to the discussions on the net. Grip hands. Salty Bill Peters January 28, 2003) The passing of Bob Johnson came as a shock to those attending the '55 Ski Club outing here in Snowmass, CO. Only one Company has two attending member, A1, Jack Strom and Roy Lynn. The news was especially saddening for them. We will all miss Bob's strong voice on matters relating to West Point and the Class. My strongest memories of Bob relate to basketball. We played together as Plebes. Bob at center, me as forward or guard trying to get the ball in and hoping to get a return pass as I cut by toward the basket. One day in scrimmage Bob said," Watch for the ball as you cut by me". The first chance I got, I passed in and made my cut. I was already by Bob when almost out of nowhere the ball was bouncing off the floor into my hands. Bob had pivoted so his back was toward me and bounced a pass between his legs as I went by. We used that play many times in practice and in games. In shared sadness, all members of the ski club join in expressing our appreciation for the life of Bob Johnson, and our sincere sympathy to his family. Quent Bates January 28, 2003) Bob, you always had a story. I loved hearing them, as much as you enjoyed telling them. I will never forget you swinging me around, and I found myself face-to-face (nearly striking together) with the Supe. You got me an invitation into his home that day, which made for just one more wonderful memory of that week at West Point. I'm not sure who that invitation pleased more, you or me. Your love of West Point was undeniable. Your love for West Pointers was even greater. I know that from the stories you told me. Well done, my friend! Dian Welle January 28, 2003) Bob, your sudden passing has left an immense, unfillable stillness in my life. Although we never met, we got to know each other well, speaking on the phone several times a week, and sometimes several times a day, throughout the past 4 1/2 years. We shared our thoughts on any number of topics, but mostly about USMA, the Army, our careers, our country, and our families. Bob, my admiration and respect for you is as heartfelt as it is unwavering. I've never had a closer USMA pal and confidant, Bob, and I will daily grieve until we meet again. (MAY God bless and comfort your dear Mary Alice, Stephen, Valerie, and your grandchildren and family, and (MAY God bless and rest your kind soul, 20376. 23536 Jim Strachan '61 January 29, 2003) Here's another "nickle on the grass" for Bob Johnson. Our Class, our Alma Mater, and our Country have lost a friend, a leader, and a true patriot. Bob stood tall in every respect. And even more significant, Bob Johnson stood for something. He proudly represented those concepts that West Point counts as it's own: Duty, Honor, and Country. One never had to search to learn Bob's position on a subject of interest or concern to West Point or the U.S. Army. And his position was neither selfish nor parochial. Many will say he was great while being controversial. I say he was principled, forthwright, honorable, and a man of vision. I say we are all better for having Bob Johnson as a classmate. My sincere sympathy goes out to Bob's family and my prayers are for Bob. I salute a true professional and add "Be Thou At Peace" along with his trademark phrase, GRIP HANDS! Well Done! my friend. Bob Meisenheimer '55 January 30, 2003) Bob: Being separated during our four years by our assignments to the shortest and the tallest companies, our association during cadet days was very limited. However, through athletics, Buckner, and Class summer trips we we cognizant of each other's progress. Since we both retired to Virginia, I have become more familiar with your dedication to West Point and the U.S. Army. Regretfully, we were unable to meet during your visits to Virginia Tech during visits when your daughter was a student here. As with other classmates, I admire your spirit and dedication toward the Army and West Point through your postings on the Class Forum. We will all miss your anecdotes, points of view, and clear incite regarding Class activities. Your sudden passing has caused us reflect upon our mortality and to thank God for your life, for your contributions to the U.S. Army, to your family, and to the Class of 1955). Well Done,Bob. Dan Ludwig January 31, 2003) Access info to Bob's Message File (1200 + wp-forum Messages Written By Bob) is: http://www.west-point.org/lists/archives/usma1955_20376) The user name is: johnson The password is : 20376 Good Work Bob, -w Bill Welter February 2, 2003) On behalf of our family I would like to thank everyone for their wonderful words about Dad...or in his lingo to me ... DOD (Dear Old Dad). The service yesterday was wonderful and our thanks to everyone who was able to attend or helped out in anyway ... DOD would have liked it. I'd like to share my words about him that I read yesterday... In all the right ways my father was a very proud man…proud of his wife, proud of his sister, proud of his children, proud of his grandchildren, proud of his whole family,past and present, proud to have so many caring friends…he was also immensely proud of his Alma Mater…and West Point was truly a mother to him…and proud of his country and his service to her. Dad grew up in a wonderful family…a very loving but straightforward and practical Swedish father Carl and a very loving and giving mother Stella…I believe he got his generally uncommon common sense from my grandfather and from my grandmother his abiding love of God. She’s the one who worked diligently to help him get his appointment to West Point and they were both so proud of all his accomplishments. Dad and his wonderful sister Helen grew up in a wonderful neighborhood near Harlem, as Dad used to put it, within sight of Grant’s Tomb, with the likes of people like George Carlin. While not a wealthy neighborhood, it was a neighborhood rich in friendships and caring. It was a good place to grow up. His early education was at Corpus Christi with a pastor, life-long mentor and friend Father Ford and as well as numerous sisters who ensured that his foundation, both spiritual and educational was as sound as possible. He moved on to All Hallows High School where he excelled in both baseball and basketball. In fact, he was a member of the team that won the City Championship in 1949). While there he was also involved in several Gilbert and Sullivan productions…the basis for his lifelong love of their music. When he came to West Point in 1951), he’d found his niche. The years spent here and the friendships made profoundly shaped his life. He found no greater service than serving his God, his family and his country. Those qualities in him underwent their final forging here on the banks of the Hudson. He was the president of the Lee-Grant Chapter of the Alumni Association in Central Virginia and considered helping the Academy…his Academy…and it’s sons and daughters the best way to spend his time in his later years. My aunt swears she lost several friends after she brought them up to West Point to meet dad because he never showed any interest in any of them…that is until she brought my mother, Mary Alice, up…and it was love at first sight. She has always been foremost in his mind for over 50 years and 47 wonderful years of marriage. Mom…he had a wonderful life because of you and your love. He loved his sister Helen deeply. While they didn’t always agree on things social or political, they always talked, they were always there for each other and they always had jokes to share. We’re both going to miss getting his latest jokes. He was so very proud of my sister Valerie becoming a veterinarian, finding a great husband and raising two terrific grandchildren. He bought her her first horse years ago…and was down there helping her muck and feed whenever he could…and he’s had at least one horse ever since, but if you were to ask him who they belonged to, he’d always say that they were Valerie’s and that he was just looking after them for her. Daryl…you became his second son. He loved you very much. While he wasn’t always able to be around when we were growing up, we always knew he loved us deeply, but I think that he felt that he was the one who missed out the most…and he wasn’t about to let that happen with his two grandchildren, Justin and Claire…he was one of the proudest grand dads I’ve ever met and spent as much time with them as possible and loved watching them become young people. I’d like to relate two personal stories. Even though I decided to attend another university, he didn’t pressure me in anyway to consider West Point. I did elect to be in the ROTC program, he was very proud. The first story is from when I was attending Airborne school as a cadet. The day before our first jump, I called home. I was nervous, but looking forward to my jump. My dad gave me a typical piece of his sage advice…”keep your feet and knees together” and some other encouragement and said that I’d do fine. The next day, after our first jump, I was called to the company CQ and who was standing there, but Dear old Dad. He’d been planning to come down the whole time. He was there for the rest of my jumps; he took me around the training areas and described for me what it was like when he was going through the training. He was there to pin on my wings…the wings he earned in 1955). The second is…the day before my commissioning, he called and told me to be standing tall in uniform at my room first thing in the morning. He showed up, dressed in his greens with a little American Flag in hand…and he swore me in as a Second Lieutenant in the TV room of my dorm…because he said that he didn’t want them, the ROTC Cadre, to screw it up later…it seems to have taken. Because this wonderful Academy was such an important part of my father’s life, I’d like to conclude by paraphrasing my father’s own words that he used to remember a dear friend of his, Ms. Adele Mitchell, only two weeks ago. It would be an understatement to simply say that he had black, gold and gray running in his veins…the only thing more important to him in his life than the Academy was his family. There are many more wonderful and complimentary adjectives that I could use to describe my father, but if I had to choose one way to describe him and the way he lived his life I would say that he lived the words of the Cadet Prayer. For those who have never heard it, it is worth repeating now. O God, Our Father, Thou Searcher of Men’s hearts, help us to draw near to thee in sincerity and truth. (MAY our religion be filled with gladness and (MAY our worship of thee be natural. Strengthen and increase our admiration for honest dealing and clean thinking, and suffer not our hatred of hypocrisy and pretence ever to diminish. Encourage us in our endeavor to live above the common level of life. Make us choose the harder right instead of the easier wrong, and never to be content with a half-truth when the whole can be won. Endow us with the courage that is born of loyalty to all that is noble and worthy, that scorns to compromise with vice and injustice and knows no fear when truth and right are in jeopardy. Guard us against flippancy and irreverence in the sacred things of life. Grant us new ties of friendship and new opportunities of service. Kindle our hearts in fellowship with those of a cheerful countenance, and soften our hearts with sympathy for those who sorrow and suffer. Help us to maintain the honor of the Corps untarnished and unsullied and to show forth in the lives the ideals of West Point in doing our duty to Thee and to our Country. All of which we ask in the name of the Great Friend and Master of Men. Amen. He knew long ago that this is where he wanted to be laid to rest and I’m happy and proud that we are able to accomplish this final thing for him. Grip Hands. MAJ Stephen G. Johnson February 4, 2003)  Taps (MAY / (JUN 2006) Date sent: Sat, 0(9 MAY 2009) 17:48:31,0500 From: ColJack "coljack@austin.rr.com" To: 1955Bus "usma55bus@west-point.org", twovets@att.net Subject: usma55bus: The Passing of Mary Alice Johnson (Bob's Wife) I am sad to report that Mary Alice Johnson passed away in April of this year. Her daughter and son-in-law, Valarie & Daryl Tyson, asked that the class be notified.She is now with Bob at the West Point cemetery. You can contact the Tyson's at twovets@att.net. (MAY she rest in peace... ~jack |
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