About this Unit
Camp Johnson, located in North Carolina, is a United States Marine Corps installation that has played a significant role in military training since its establishment during World War II. Originally known as Montford Point, it was the site where the first African American Marines were trained from 1942 to 1949, breaking racial barriers within the Corps. In 1974, the base was renamed in honor of Sergeant Major Gilbert H. "Hashmark" Johnson, one of the first African American Marine Corps sergeants major and a distinguished Montford Point Marine. Today, Camp Johnson serves as a key component of Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, hosting various training schools, including the Marine Corps Combat Service Support Schools.
Historical Facts
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Origins as Montford Point: Camp Johnson was originally known as Montford Point and was established in 1942 as the first training facility dedicated to African-American Marines during World War II.
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Named after Sgt. Maj. Gilbert "Hashmark" Johnson: In 1974, the camp was renamed in honor of Sgt. Maj. Gilbert H. Johnson, one of the first African-American Marines and a distinguished drill instructor.
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Montford Point Marines Legacy: Over 20,000 African-American Marines were trained at Montford Point between 1942 and 1949, overcoming segregation and making significant contributions during WWII.
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Location: Camp Johnson is located adjacent to Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, North Carolina, and is part of the larger Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune.
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Current Role: Today, Camp Johnson serves as the home of the Marine Corps Combat Service Support Schools (MCCSSS), where Marines are trained in logistics, supply, personnel administration, and other support roles.
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Historic Recognition: In 2012, the Montford Point Marines were collectively awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, one of the highest civilian honors in the United States, for their pioneering service.
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Montford Point Marine Museum: The camp houses the Montford Point Marine Museum, which preserves artifacts, documents, and oral histories to educate visitors about the unit's unique history.
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First African-American Drill Instructors: Sgt. Maj. Johnson and a few others became among the first African-American drill instructors in the Marine Corps, shaping the training and discipline of new Marines.
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Desegregation: The camp’s original function ended in 1949 when President Harry S. Truman ordered the desegregation of the U.S. Armed Forces, leading to the integration of all Marines.
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Enduring Legacy: Camp Johnson stands as a symbol of progress and the breaking of racial barriers within the U.S. military, with annual ceremonies and events honoring the Montford Point Marines' legacy.
