In 1940, at the age of 19, Johnson was signed by the Boston Red Sox, whose scouts had been impressed by his fastball even while he was in high school. Johnson spent a mere six months in the minors before he was called up to the majors. This was unheard of for a young player who could typically expect to be there at least five years. The Red Sox recognized his abilities and knew he was destined for greatness.

Johnson played with the Red Sox until 1942, when he was drafted into the Anny. His unit was shipped out in 1944 just as the allies were hitting the beaches in Normandy.

Johnson’s unit fought in some of the bloodiest and most critical battles of WWII. He was a platoon leader of a unit that was part of the St. Lo breakout, helping to release pressure on Normandy. He also fought in the Battle of the Bulge and was a witness to the fall of Berlin.

Though other ballplayers, like Joe DiMaggio, Bob Feller and Stan Musial, received more publicity during the war, none did more for their country than Johnson. In a 14 month period, he received three battlefield commissions, taking him from Sergeant to First Lieutenant. During that same period, he was awarded a silver star and two bronze stars.

Johnson returned to the Red Sox in 1946 only to find that he had lost his famous fastball. He adjusted by learning to pitch and not merely throw. The adjustment made him an integral part of the World Series team in 1946. He played eight seasons in the majors before becoming a scout. Even though he lost his chance at major league fame because of the war, he was never bitter. He gladly gave up his career for his country.