LCPL Philip Alexander Johnson, 19, departed his earthly life on Sunday Sept. 3, 2006 while on active duty serving his country honorably in Iraq since July 14, 2006. He was born on April 29, 1987 in Hartford, CT the beloved son of Louis and Kathy (Titus) Johnson. Philip was a graduate of Enfield High School Class of 2005. He was involved with the wrestling team during his Junior year. He was a member of Voices Incorporated, a choral program that integrated both Enfield High Schools. He enjoyed music tremendously and played several instruments including saxophone, drums, keyboards, and bass guitar. His musical idol was Paul McCartney, who he got to see in concert. Philip's love for his country was strong and true.
He wanted nothing more than to be a Marine from the time he knew what a Marine was. There is a certain pride in a Marines' eye very early on in life and he had that pride. Philip was heavily involved with the Westover Young Marines. He joined in 1998, achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant and was honorably discharged in July 2005 he took his duties very seriously. Philip left for Parris Island in Aug. 2005. During boot camp he achieved the position of Squad Leader and Platoon Guide. He graduated from Parris Island Oct. 17, 2005 with the rank of PFC and quickly earned the rank of LCPL. He was stationed in Camp Lejeune NC where he trained with the 3D BN 2D MAR Scout Sniper Weapons Unit. Shortly after arriving in Iraq he transferred to 3D BN 2D MAR KILO Company.
LCpl Jophnson's personal awards include, One Purple Heart, One Combat Action Ribbon, Iraqi Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and National Defence Medal. Besides his parents Philip is survived by his loving family; a sister; Jessica Titus of Vernon, maternal grandmother; Beverly (Robidoux) Titus, maternal great-grandmother; Doris (Riendeau) Robidoux both of South Windsor, uncle Bill Johnson of E. Windsor and aunt Josephine Johnson both of E. Windsor, cousins Mary Margaret and Dana Medling both of Waterford, CT, cousin Seaman William Johnson and his wife Missy stationed in Kings Bay, GA, auntie Anne Titus Honn and uncle Rick Honn and two cousins Jacob and Andrew of Silver Spring, MD, uncle Paul Titus of E. Windsor and cousin Jimanie Titus of Enfield, uncle Andy Titus and auntie Lori and two cousins Joe and Jonathan of E. Windsor, many, many friends and of course his Marine Brothers. Philip was predeceased by his maternal grandfather; Richard J. Titus and paternal grandparents; William L. and Helen (Plona) Johnson.
Funeral services for Philip will be held on Friday Sept. 15, 2006 at 2:00pm in the Lutheran Church of Our Redeemer 20 North Street Enfield with Pastor Michael Coons officiating. Interment with full military honors will take place in the Hazardville Cemetery, Enfield. Philip's family will receive relatives and friends on Thursday Sept. 14 from 2 to 8pm at Browne Memorial Funeral Chapels 43 Shaker Rd. Enfield, CT. In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorial donations be made to Westover Young Marines Fund C/O Enfield Federal Savings & Loan Assoc. 855 Enfield St. P.O. Box 1279 Enfield, CT 06083-1279.