[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 117 (Monday, July 10, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Page S2285]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                TRIBUTE TO MASTER SERGEANT DONNA JOHNSON

 Mr. TUBERVILLE. Mr. President, ROTC programs are critical 
source of leadership for our Armed Forces. ROTC programs also change 
people's lives. A perfect example is MSG Donna Johnson of Birmingham, 
who began her military career in ROTC at Jackson-Olin High School.
  She says that after joining the ROTC, she knew that she was meant to 
be a soldier. The idea of serving those in need motivated Donna to join 
Alabama's National Guard full-time. She faithfully represented our 
State and country across the world, including stops in Iraq and Kuwait 
as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. While stationed in Kuwait, Donna 
was asked to sing the national anthem for her fellow servicemembers 
after her commander noticed her gift of singing. She cites this as one 
of her most memorable experiences during her 38 years in the Guard.
  Donna continues to share her love of America through song at various 
events across Alabama, including Veterans Day ceremonies, school 
assemblies, and athletic events. Donna also generously invests her time 
in Alabama's next generation of leaders by mentoring in the Birmingham 
City Schools' ``Common Ground'' program. She serves as a positive role 
model for young women ages 12-14, encouraging them to rise above 
challenging circumstances, stay in school, and respect themselves and 
others.
  We are blessed to have Donna serving the people of our great State, 
and I am proud to recognize her as the July Veteran of the 
Month.

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