BAGHDAD - Sgt. 1st Class Donald Johnson, an electronic warfare officer with 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, has served in one component of the Army or another since 1986 when he enlisted in the Army as a wheel mechanic.
His first assignment was with Company C, 303rd Field Artillery, 8th Infantry Division, in Baumholder, Germany.
In 1988, he transitioned into the Army Reserve for two years with a Wisconsin-based engineer company.
After two years in the reserves, Johnson transitioned back to the Regular Army for seven years; followed by ten years in the Army National Guard.
In 2007, Johnson rejoined the Regular Army and returned to Baumholder under Headquarters and Headquarters Company of the 2nd Brigade, 1st Armored Division.
"The Army has helped to define me. I kept coming back because I missed the camaraderie. I enjoyed being part of something bigger than myself, and serving my country. I felt like I was making a difference."
Johnson served in many different positions in his more than 22 years in the Army. He has done everything; from being a mechanic to a company first sergeant.
"I loved those jobs because they allowed me to work closely with the lower enlisted and get to know and help them."
As a sergeant first class, Johnson acted as the first sergeant for Headquarters and Headquarters Company 2nd BCT, 1st Armd. Div. while the Soldiers trained for their deployment to Iraq in April 2008. While some might have been intimidated by working a level above their pay grade, Johnson rose to the occasion.
"It's not about your pay grade; it's about how you approach the job. It didn't matter what rank I was, I got support when I needed it and got the job done."
Johnson now works as the electronic warfare officer for the 2nd BCT; overseeing the battalion-level EWOs and making sure their equipment is maintained and tested.
"My job now is keeping Soldiers alive," said Johnson.
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