On Veterans Day 2004 sixteen veterans of the Korean and Vietnam era and including one World War II (WWII) vet came together and met at the Masonic Temple in North Little Rock, Arkansas.
The purpose was to explore the possibility of forming a new American Legion Post serving the greater central Arkansas area. After it was agreed to do so, the Post selected the name Michael Vann Johnson, Jr., to honor
his sacrifice.
Michael Vann Johnson, Jr., was a Navy Hospital Corpsman (HM2) who died while providing medical assistance to a wounded Marine in Iraq. He was the first Arkansan killed in action during Operation Iraqi Freedom on March 25, 2003.
Officers were elected and the Post was officially named as Michael Vann Johnson, Jr., American Legion Post 74 of North Little Rock.
Post 74 has become one of the most recognized and respected Veteran Service Organization in this region each year (early Spring) Post 74 hosts an Annual Tribute to our Fallen Heroes Ceremony.
This ceremony is designed to honor the memory of ALL of the Great State of Arkansas’ Fallen Heroes that have paid the ultimate sacrifice as a result of
Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom (OIF/OEF).
The event is supported by all levels of Federal, State and City Government and all top level Military personnel from the Little Rock Air Force Base and Arkansas National Guard.
Gold Star Families are and always will be Post 74’s distinguished guests. The general public is always encouraged to attend.