Beyond Defeat

This is my favorite autobiography. I have read it about a dozen times. It is a story well worth reading. Dr. James E. Johnson lived a life of love and forgiveness. His story has inspired me.

Johnny Johnson was the grandson of a slave.His father's side was the gigantically tall Watusis from Africa. His Mother's side was pure Indian: Cherokee and Blackfoot and she was the Chief's daughter and her father demanded everything that he owned in payment for his daughter. Johnny grew up in the south and joined the military service for 20 years and worked for President's Nixon, Ford and Carter. Johnny is an international speaker for Jesus and the military and his experiences. Chuck Colson a friend wrote the introduction for Johnny's book.
James E Johnson (Jimmy or Johnny) was the 9th child and last child born to black and American Indian parents in 1926. Johnny's parents encouraged him to compete and do well. After graduating from high school Johnny joined the Marines and eventually became an officer. Johnny's parents were Christians and so was he and his wife Juanita. Johnny insisted on his full rights as a serviceman, like NCO housing on base with the only housing being white.He forced the Service to integrate in many ways.Johnny had a whole list of firsts for a black man. But his greatest life achievement was bringing people in many scenarios to Jesus Christ. Johnny and Juanita practiced what they preached and they always followed the Bible wherever it led.Johnny and Juanita had their oldest son, Ken die as a result of a military doctor's negligence. Ken was a 2nd lieutenant being operated on for a neck growth and the the anesthesiologist left him unattended during surgery and his heart stopped. His parents questioned and chastised the doctors But God bless them they forgave the anesthesiologist. This is a remarkable story of Johnny's many achievements and the faith that carried him through. Johnny and Juanita's Bible Study led them to sabbath and the Seventh Day Adventist church as members.