“I’ve always wanted to become a chief and it was a proud moment when I became one,” said Johnson. “It’s not just a job, but a way of life. Being chief is a special position and rank.” 

The aircraft manager made his final permanent change of station to Moody in June 2006.

“For the months that I’ve known Chief Johnson here at Moody, he truly loved the military and embraced the military way of life,” said Chief Master Sgt. Alejandro Alexander, 723rd AMXS aircraft manager. “It is a great honor to follow in the footsteps of such a great person. He definitely paved a way for me and others to follow.”

In addition to his duty stations, the chief master sergeant experienced 10 major deployments.

“I just got back from Iraq and it’s probably the most meaningful because it was my last,” said Chief Johnson. “Every time a deployed aircraft is launched, it gives me a sense of how important my job is to completing the mission.”

As I look back to my 30-year military career, I know that I have learned so much, said the chief master sergeant.

“I learned a lot about life’s lessons including how to be a dad, husband, son, mentor to my Airmen, and contributor to the community,” he said. “I also learned about how to develop leadership skills, management skills, and technical aspects.”

After his retirement ceremony, Chief Johnson plans to go fishing with his dad in Alaska and then travel to France and Italy with his wife of over 29 years. He is also looking forward to spending time with his three children: Lindsey, Hayley, and Ian.

In addition, the aircraft manager would like to earn credentials to start teaching at a high school level.

Chief Johnson would also like to thank his parents, wife and God for supporting him all throughout his career.

I truly enjoyed being in the Air Force and with that I have some words of advice to Airmen, Chief Johnson said.

“Follow your heart and do what is right,” he added. “It is also very important to lead by example and practice active leadership.”