The City of Orange Beach celebrated the extraordinary life and legacy of Joe Johnson during a City Council meeting in honor of his 100th birthday on Thursday, January 9, 2025. Mayor Tony Kennon and the council proclaimed January 9, 2025 as Joe Johnson Day, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the community and his country.
A World War II veteran and South Pacific Naval aviator, Johnson’s life is marked by adventure and service. He contributed to the development of the first guided cruise missile as a test pilot, worked on the McDonnell Douglas rocket program, and served Alabama as a sea plane pilot. Beyond his aviation career, Johnson owned shrimp boat and crop-dusting businesses and was crew chief for the winning car at the 1975 USAC National Dirt Car Championship.
In Orange Beach, his impact is profound. Johnson helped incorporate the city in 1984, served on the first water board, and even assisted in building the first city jail as a welder.
