Emory Johnson Park Flagpole Dedicated

The city of Toccoa honors a fallen hero on the anniversary of his death.

Friday, city officials and people from throughout the community gathered at Emory Johnson Park to dedicate a flagpole in honor of the late Lance Corporal Emory Johnson on what was the 50th anniversary of his death during the Vietnam War.

Toccoa named the park for Johnson in 2000 to serve as a reminder of his life, his service, and his family’s loss.

Then in 2011, the Currahee Mountain Detachment 1303 of the Marine Corps League dedicated a granite monument in the park in Johnson’s memory.

Toccoa Mayor Jeanette Jamieson said the city is honored to continue to honor Johnson by adding this flagpole.

“We continue to be a free county because of the dedication and the sacrifice of people like this fine young Lance Corporal Johnson,” said Jamieson. “It is fitting and proper that we continue the work done at this park named in his honor and more than anything else, that we recognize not only his sacrifice, but the sacrifice of his family and every family who has given up the life of a loved one so we can remain a free America.”

Johnson’s daughter, Michelle Johnson Floyd, said she feels like her father would appreciate being remembered at the park where he spent much of his youth.

“We know this park was a very important part of my father’s life,” said Floyd. “I know he would be so proud that it was re-named in his memory and he would appreciate the gratitude for his service.”

Friday’s ceremony also included the laying of a wreath at the flagpole and the presentation of a plaque from the city to the Johnson family.