PROUD TO SERVE

by Nicole Hirao '23 and Caleb Sharp '23

Showing appreciation for our troops, both at home and abroad, is an important aspect of being an American. Whether it's thanking service members for their contribution to our country or celebrating holidays such as Veterans and Independence Day, expressing gratitude toward members of our armed forces is a celebrated aspect of life in the United States. However, there are those that go above and beyond in expressing their appreciation. One such person is Major General James Johnson, USA (Ret.), MBA ‘96.

Johnson’s ties to the military, as well as the Puget Sound area, run deep. Most of Johnson’s childhood and adolescence were spent in the Tacoma area, as his father served in the Army for over 20 years and spent much of his career stationed at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Inspired by his father’s commitment to serve, Johnson went on to join the U.S. Airforce after graduating from the University of Puget Sound.

Johnson was fortunate enough to be stationed at Joint Base LewisMcChord during the beginning of his tenure. It was during this time that he attended Saint Martin’s to pursue a Master’s degree in Business Administration. When asked about his time spent at Saint Martin’s, Johnson said, “The quality of the education I received at Saint Martin’s was exceptional. The coursework was essential for developing critical thinking skills for so much of the work I accomplished during the years since attending Saint Martin’s.”

Aside from Saint Martin’s quality of education, Johnson also appreciates Saint Martin’s willingness to work with service members’ fluctuating schedules. “Saint Martin’s extension program made it possible for service members to study and accomplish undergraduate and graduate degrees, despite unpredictable schedules. It's clear that Saint Martin’s is an educational institution truly committed to supporting the academic growth of those who have raised their hand to serve.”

After retiring from the Airforce, Johnson joined Operation Gratitude as its CEO in August of 2021. In short, Operation Gratitude is an organization that primarily delivers care packages to active duty service members, veterans and the families of service members. Johnson says, “In the future, we look forward to establishing Operation Gratitude chapters in Washington state” and “for Operation Gratitude to partner with Saint Martin’s in all these various ways to thank those who serve.”

Saint Martin’s University commends Johnson, Operation Gratitude and all current/former service members of the United States military. Thank you for your service!