James 'Flam' Johnson | |
---|---|
Nickname(s) | Flam |
Born | Benoni, Transvaal, Union of South Africa[1] | 10 February 1918
Died | 2 October 1990 South Africa | (aged 72)
Service/ | South African Navy |
Years of service | 1946–1977 |
Rank | Vice Admiral |
Commands held | |
Wars | World War II |
Awards |
Vice-Admiral James 'Johnny' Johnson SSA SM DSC (10 February 1918 – 2 October 1990) was a former Chief of the South African Navy (1 April 1972 to 30 September 1977).[2] He was nicknamed "Flam" after his wartime red beard - "Vlambaard" in Afrikaans.[1]
He trained at the General Botha Training college from 1933 to 1934 and joined the P&O Line after leaving General Botha.[3]
He was commissioned in 1938 and joined HMS York in 1939. After his ship was sunk in Suda Bay, Crete, he joined HMS Jed,[1] which took part in the Battle of the Atlantic from 1942 to 1943. During this time he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for Gallantry. He also served as commanding officer of HMS Verbena (K85)[4] and HMS Rosebay (K286)[1]
The citation in the London Gazette reads:
For outstanding courage, enterprise and devotion to duty in action with enemy submarines while serving in H.M.S. Jed[7]
Lieutenant James Johnson, R.N.R. (Brekpan (sic), Transvaal)