Johnson entered the U.S. Air Force in 1973, and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel after a distinguished military career of more than 26 years. He graduated Summa Cum Laude from Troy University in Troy, Alabama in 1979, and he earned his Master’s Degree from Georgia Tech in 1984. During his tenure in the U.S. Air Force, Johnson was recognized as a Distinguished Graduate from the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps, Squadron Officers School, and Air Command & Staff College. Bill is also a proud recipient of the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Force Commendation Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. As Director of the Air Force’s Chief Information Officer Staff at U.S. Special Operations Command, Johnson worked directly with senior congressional and Secretary of Defense representatives, as well as top leaders within the various U.S. intelligence communities, to ensure America’s Special Operations forces were adequately equipped to carry out critical national security missions.
President Trump’s ‘America First’ policy sets our nation on a stronger path of continuing to lead on the world stage while also putting the safety, interests and well-being of our citizens first. Through his leadership, America is confronting global challenges head on, while pursuing opportunities to promote the security and prosperity of all Americans.
The President’s national security strategy also recognizes that America faces new challenges in today’s more complex and volatile global security environment. In order to defend our nation in this new era of near-peer competition, America’s defense priorities have shifted to prioritize long-term strategic competition with China and Russia, in addition to continuing to deter and counter rogue regimes such as North Korea and Iran.
It is vitally important that Congress continue to provide the Department of Defense with the necessary funding for our Armed Forces to operate as a more lethal and resilient Joint Force. It is critical that we authorize and provide our defense leaders with the flexibility needed to modernize critical weapons systems, programs and advanced technology through both increased and sustained investment. We must also work diligently to stand up the United States Space Force to undertake missions and operations in the rapidly evolving space domain. I am honored to have served as a Conferee on the National Defense Authorization Act Conference Committee for multiple Fiscal Years to ensure our Armed Forces have the funding and capabilities needed to deter, fight, and win in this environment.
Domestically, it is also vital that America continue to sustain and grow our industrial base. Ohio is home to vital aerospace and defense installations, and our state possesses preeminent manufacturing and supply chain capabilities. I will continue to work with my colleagues at the federal and state level to preserve and expand our defense industry and associated economic opportunities here at home.
Our work to protect our homeland is no less important. I believe America should have a rigorous policy that engages on multiple fronts to prevent terrorist attacks and interference from our adversaries, particularly within the cyber domain. Increasing communication between law enforcement and the intelligence community, in addition to a strong, capable missile defense system, are of the utmost importance in deterring our adversaries from bringing the fight to our shores. Be assured, I will continue working with my colleagues to ensure President Trump and our national defense leaders continue to have the necessary funding and capabilities to defend our homeland, deter our adversaries, and preserve peace through strength.