ANNAPOLIS — The U.S. Naval Academy has identified a Midshipman who drowned December 14, while on leave.
John Johnson, a 22-year-old senior from North Carolina, was swimming with friends in Park City, Utah when he didn't resurface.
According to police reports, Johnson's friends pulled him out and tried unsuccessfully to revive him.
He later died at Park City Medical Center.
Johnson was the oldest of five boys. He was the 29th Company platoon commander this year.
During his time at the Naval Academy, Johnson conducted research on matroid invariants and error correcting codes.
With a 3.97 GPA, he ranked in the top 40 among his classmates.
“If I were to describe John in one word, it would be ‘passion,’” said 29th Company Officer Lt. Eric Nordquist. “He epitomized and excelled in every area, and earned the respect of everyone who crossed his path. He will be sorely missed by the 29th Company in so many ways.”
Funeral arrangements are pending.
Counseling services and support are available to Naval Academy midshipmen, faculty, and staff.
