The Real Story of the USS Johnston DD 821: Heroes of the Pacific Ocean

When we think about the heroic actions that took place during World War II, stories of brave soldiers, devastating battles, and strategic maneuvers come to mind. However, there are some lesser-known tales of naval heroism that deserve to be acknowledged. One such story is that of the USS Johnston DD 821, a destroyer escort vessel that, against all odds, engaged in a fierce battle against a superior Japanese force in the Pacific Ocean.

The USS Johnston DD 821, named after John V. Johnston, a naval officer who lost his life during the Battle of Leyte Gulf, was commissioned in 1944. The ship saw action in various key operations throughout the Pacific theater, but it was the Battle off Samar during the Battle of Leyte Gulf that truly solidified its place in history.

On October 25, 1944, Admiral William Halsey's Third Fleet was supporting the invasion of the Philippines when a powerful Japanese fleet, including battleships, cruisers, and destroyers, suddenly appeared on the horizon. The fleet was led by Admiral Takeo Kurita, who sought to engage and destroy the American landing forces. However, the Allied forces were ill-prepared for such an encounter, and the situation seemed dire.

The Real Story of the USS Johnston DD-821: As Told by the Officers and Sailors who served aboard her

by George Sites(Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	16201 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	500 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

As the Japanese fleet closed in, one of the key American defense lines consisted of a small group of escort vessels, including the USS Johnston DD 821. Although heavily outnumbered and outgunned, the crew of the USS Johnston refused to back down.

The battle began with intense ferocity, as the USS Johnston fired its guns and launched torpedoes in an attempt to halt the advancing Japanese fleet. Despite taking heavy fire and being hit by numerous shells, the destroyer pushed forward, engaging enemy ships at close range.

Commander Ernest E. Evans, the captain of the USS Johnston, played a pivotal role in the battle. Despite the overwhelming odds, Evans inspired his crew with his unwavering determination and bravery. His famous words, "We'll shoot it out on this line, or not at all," exemplified the spirit of the entire crew.

As the battle raged on, the USS Johnston sustained severe damage. The ship's bridge was hit, resulting in Evans being fatally wounded. Nevertheless, the crew continued the fight, displaying incredible resilience and determination.

Eventually, after inflicting considerable damage to the Japanese fleet, the USS Johnston was forced to make a daring escape in order to avoid sinking. The surviving crew members jumped into the sea and witnessed their beloved vessel go down. Despite their tremendous loss, they were proud of the stand they had taken.

The Battle off Samar was a crucial turning point in the Battle of Leyte Gulf. The actions of the USS Johnston and its crew, along with other escort vessels, successfully managed to halt the Japanese advance and allow time for the main American forces to regroup and counterattack. This historic battle ultimately led to a significant victory for the Allied forces.

The heroism displayed by the crew of the USS Johnston DD 821 did not go unnoticed. Posthumously, Commander Ernest E. Evans was awarded the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary leadership and gallantry. Additionally, several crew members received commendations for their bravery and contribution during the battle.

Losing a ship is always a tragic event, but the sacrifice made by the USS Johnston and its crew will forever be remembered as one of the most valiant acts in naval history. The USS Johnston DD 821 serves as a symbol of bravery, resilience, and selflessness, reminding us of the extraordinary individuals who fought for the freedom we enjoy today.

, the real story of the USS Johnston DD 821 is a testament to the courage and determination displayed by the crew members who fought against overwhelming odds. Their heroic actions during the Battle off Samar will always be remembered as a pivotal moment in naval history. The crew of the USS Johnston DD 821 truly embodies the spirit of heroism, reminding us of the sacrifices made by countless individuals during World War II.

The Real Story of the USS Johnston DD-821: As Told by the Officers and Sailors who served aboard her

by George Sites(Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	16201 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	500 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

A compilation of real stories written by more than 90 former officers and sailors who served aboard the USS Johnston DD-821. The stories are in each sailor or officer's own words. Includes stories from commissioning to decommissioning plus WWII, Korean War, Vietnam and the cold war. A must read for any former destroyer sailor or officer or anyone simply interested in U.S. Naval history. Here are some of the comments received for the book:

George,
Mine arrived today! It is marvelous, a wonderful work you can be proud of assembling and authoring. I'm very much looking to reading it from cover to cover.
I intend to tell the Naval Historical Foundation about it, because it will add to their archives of USS JOHNSTON.
Well done, shipmate.
Mike McCaffree, Rear Admiral U.S.N. Retired

George,
I received the book yesterday - it's wonderful....thanks for all your hard work in putting it together! Reading the book has brought back some great memories and I also am learning more about the ship's intriguing history.
Take care,
Al Myers

Hello George,
Received My copy and want to thank you for doing this job.
Excellent ... I am recalling so many events. Sorry I did not respond to your call for "war stories from the USS Johnston".Perhaps if you ever do an update, I can add a couple of pages next time.
Great luck with it.
Bob O'Dell RM3, USS Johnston DD821, 1952-1955

Hi George,
Linda and I had an opportunity to peruse the book and it was obvious that you devoted many hours in development and publishing. We both enjoyed the content immensely and will spend many hours in reading the book. You did a terrific job; well done.
Regards, Captain John Mingo

George,
Got the books yesterday and WHAT A BOOK !!!! Thank you so much for your hard work on the book. The people who did not respond to your request for stories are really going to be sorry they aren't in the book. I'm going to donate one copy to my local library so the public in the Macon area can read about the Johnston.
Thanks again for the book,
Johnny “Jonesy” Jones

George,
Got my book last night. It's fabulous!!
Thanks for all your work in putting this together!
Mike Graziano

George, got the book. Have already read most of it. It is really a great history and background of events regarding the Johnston. The book mentions a "Johnston Association". How do I join?
The book has triggered many memories of my time on the Johnston. After reading the stories in the book, especially those around the time period I was aboard, it seems my memories sometimes seem to be skewed one way or the other. I guess that happens as we grow older.
In any case, it was great to read the stories. I did notice that there were few stories from the Snipes. I have some, so when I get the time, I'll write them down for you, hopefully for an updated version sometime down the road.
Thanks again for all you did to put this book together. I know it must have been one hellov'a task, but, you did good.
Paul Johnston

I received the book and am enjoying reading the various chapters some which awaken old and almost forgotten memories!!!!
Good job you did putting it together.
Ray Paquette