Shoshana Johnson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Shoshana Nyree Johnson
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Shoshana Johnson at an NAACP dinner—July 18, 2003
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| Born | 18 January 1973 Pedro Miguel, Panama |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Years of service | 1998–2003 |
| Rank |  Specialist |
| Unit | 5th Battalion 52d Air Defense Artillery 507th Maintenance Company |
| Battles/wars | |
| Awards |
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Shoshana Nyree Johnson (born January 18, 1973) is a former soldier from the United States. She was born in Panama. Shoshana Johnson made history as the first black female prisoner of war in the military history of the United States. She served as a Specialist in the U.S. Army.
During a battle in Nasiriyah, Iraq, she was hurt and captured. Iraqi forces held her prisoner for 22 days. Five other soldiers from her unit were also captured with her. On April 13, 2003, she was freed by United States Marine Corps troops.
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Shoshana Johnson's Life and Army Career
Shoshana Johnson grew up in Panama. Her family later moved to the United States. Her father was also a soldier in the U.S. Army. Shoshana was the oldest child in her family.
In high school, she joined a program called JROTC. This program teaches students about the military. Shoshana wanted to go to cooking school. She joined the Army to save money for her studies. She joined the U.S. Army in September 1998.
Joining the Army and Going to Iraq
In February 2003, Shoshana was stationed in Fort Bliss, Texas. She received orders to go to Iraq. Her job was to prepare meals for soldiers. This job is called a Food Service Specialist.
On March 23, 2003, Shoshana was part of a group of vehicles called a convoy. This was during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Her convoy took a wrong turn and was attacked in the city of Nasiriyah. There had been heavy fighting around Nasiriyah.
Iraqi soldiers ambushed her convoy. Shoshana was shot in her ankles. She was one of about twelve soldiers captured by the Iraqi forces.
Being a Prisoner of War and Rescue
Soon after her capture, Iraqi authorities showed a video of Shoshana Johnson. This was how many Americans first learned about her.
On April 13, 2003, U.S. Marines carried out rescue missions. They searched houses in the city of Samarra. Shoshana Johnson was rescued along with six other prisoners of war.
When they returned to the United States on April 16, they were welcomed as heroes. Over 3,000 people cheered for them. The U.S. Army honored them for their bravery and service.
Life After the Army
On December 12, 2003, Shoshana Johnson left the U.S. Army. She received an honorable discharge due to her injuries. She was given several important awards for her service in Iraq. These included the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, and the Prisoner of War Medal.
On New Year's Eve 2003, Shoshana was invited to a special event. She helped the mayor of New York City start the ball drop for 2004.
Sharing Her Story
Shoshana Johnson wanted to tell her story. She signed a book deal to write about her experiences. Her first book was planned to be called One Wrong Turn.
Later, she signed a new deal with a different publisher. Her book, I'm Still Standing: From Captive U.S. Soldier to Free Citizen — My Journey Home, was released on February 2, 2010. It tells about her journey from being captured to returning home.
Awards and Honors
Shoshana Johnson received several important awards for her bravery and service. These include:
- Bronze Star: This award is given for heroic or brave actions in a combat zone.
- Purple Heart: This medal is given to soldiers who are wounded or killed in action.
- Prisoner of War Medal: This medal honors those who were held as prisoners of war.
- Army Commendation Medal: This award is given for heroic acts or outstanding service.
- Army Good Conduct Medal: This medal is for soldiers who show good conduct, efficiency, and fidelity.
- National Defense Service Medal: This medal is given for serving during a time of national emergency or war.
- Army Service Ribbon: This ribbon is given to soldiers who complete initial entry training.
