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Rosamond Johnson Beach Day

Rosamond Johnson Beach Day

The Perdido Key Chamber of Commerce and the Gulf Islands National Seashore present Rosamond Johnson Beach Day to honor the life of Army Private Rosamond Johnson, Jr. Every year, the folks of Perdido Key spend the day together on Johnson Beach with Johnson’s family, honoring his memory and sacrifices.

The National Park Service will waive entrance fees, 8am-noon at Johnson Beach. The public is invited to attend the event to hear comments from the Johnson family, a keynote address from Captain Pat Everly of the National Flight Academy, and a wreath laying.

Johnson was the first Escambia County resident to die in the Korean War. Johnson rescued two injured soldiers and brought them to safety before he was fatally wounded while returning for a third comrade.

After the Korean Conflict, the area’s Sunset Riding Club suggested renaming the county-owned beach to honor its fallen hero. The club leased the land in 1950 for the sole use of bathing, beach, and recreational facilities for “colored citizens.” During that time, Pensacola beaches were racially segregated.

The area became part of Gulf Islands National Seashore May 8, 1973. A permanent monument in Johnson’s honor was erected at Johnson Beach in 1996. These days, the Perdido Key community hosts this annual commemoration on Johnson Beach.

 

Read More at Perdido Key Chamber

Event details subject to change. Click source links for latest information.

Venue

Rosamond Johnson Beach
13300 Johnson Beach RD
Perdido Key, FL 32507 United States
+ Google Map
850-934-2600
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