Nicholas Johnston

Sergeant, United States Army

March 2, 1999 – October 29, 2022
Age – 23
Adrian, MI

B Company, 1/5 Infantry Battalion, Fort Wainwright, AK

Passed away unexpectly on October 29, 2022 at Ft. Wainwright

Nicholas Joseph Johnston, 23, unexpectedly passed away on Saturday October 29, 2022, at Fort Wainwright, AK. Nick was born on March 26, 1999, in La Mesa, CA to Mary Kay LaFerney and Terry Johnston. Nick has two younger brothers, Hunter and Zachary that shared a special bond with their older brother.

Growing up in the San Diego area, Nick was passionate about sports. He played Little League baseball in San Carlos and played recreational basketball in Poway. He loved sports and was a die-hard San Diego Padres fan, taking his passion with him into the Army. Nick spent time camping with his dad, traveling to unique places in his motor home. As a young boy, Nick ran with the neighborhood boys in Del Cero, spending hours skateboarding, playing video games as his house was the main hangout.

Nick joined the Army February 18, 2020, attending OSUT at Fort Benning, GA qualifying as an Infantryman. He was stationed at Fort Wainwright, AK with the B Co 1/5 Infantry Battalion and was promoted to Specialist on May 9, 2022. Going through military training and moving to Alaska provided Nick a myriad of new experiences and friends. Several young men hung out and became brothers by choice. Nick served with passion and cared deeply for his friends and fellow Soldiers. He put others first and made sure everyone in his presence felt valued and had a good time. Nick was well-loved by his friends, bringing joy to the mundane tasks, singing karaoke, and cracking jokes. Nick drove his friends around as they went out to the Spur and explored northern Alaska.