About James Johnson
Lived 1918 – 1990 (aged 72). James Johnson was a South African military officer.
Vice-Admiral James 'Johnny' Johnson (10 February 1918 – 2 October 1990) was a former Chief of the South African Navy (1 April 1972 to 30 September 1977). He was nicknamed "Flam" after his wartime red beard - "Vlambaard" in Afrikaans.
He was commissioned in 1938 and joined in 1939. After his ship was sunk in Suda Bay, Crete, he joined HMS Jed, and He commanded the when she was delivered from Britain in 1964, in the rank of captain. He was promoted to commodore in 1966.
1969 he was promoted to flag rank and appointed Chief of Naval Staff.
He was appointed Chief of the South African Navy in 1972 and was the last chief to occupy Admiralty House before Naval Headquarters moved to Pretoria.
Awards and decorations
Distinguished Service Cross
The citation in the London Gazette reads:
List
Don’t just read it —
keep it.
Full-length biographies made to live with: read them, listen on the way to work, watch them tonight.
- E-book
- Audio
- Video
Instant download · yours to keep · every purchase keeps this site free
Important facts
People in James Johnson's life
Named in this biography and alive at the same time
Related people
Same field, nearest in time
Contemporaries
People whose lives overlapped James Johnson's
Frequently asked questions
Who was James Johnson?
South African admiral, born 1918
When was James Johnson born?
James Johnson was born on 10 February 1918 in Benoni.
When did James Johnson die?
James Johnson died on 2 October 1990.
What was James Johnson's occupation?
James Johnson was a military officer.
What nationality was James Johnson?
James Johnson was South African.
Sources & further reading
· DBpedia: James Johnson (South African Navy officer)
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). James Johnson. https://biography.guide/james-johnson-military-officer/
MLA: "James Johnson." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/james-johnson-military-officer/.
Chicago: "James Johnson." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/james-johnson-military-officer/.
Data last updated: 2026-09-20 · Spot an error? Report a correction.
Page generated 2026-09-27 05:27 UTC