Born in 1979 in Grenada, Johnson Beharry was one of eight children who grew up in a modest two-room dwelling. His family survived on simple meals, mainly beans and rice, and he often walked barefoot several miles to school.

Johnson Beharry | Early Career

However, by the age of 13, Johnson left school. He worked as a decorator and labourer to help support his family. In 1999, he managed to save enough money for a plane ticket to the UK, where he later enlisted in the British Army.

He joined the British Army in 2001, serving in the 1st Battalion Prince of Wales’ Royal Regiment. He was deployed in Kosovo and Northern Ireland before being sent to Iraq in April 2004.

Johnson Beharry | Outstanding Bravery 

Johnson’s acts of bravery took place during the Iraq War in the city of Al-Amarah in May 2004. At the time, he was serving as a Warrior armoured vehicle driver, part of a unit conducting operations in a heavily contested area. On May 1, 2004, his convoy came under intense attack from insurgents using rocket-propelled grenades and small arms fire.

His commander and gunner were incapacitated and Johnson took the initiative to drive through withering fire out of the killing area. In order to see, he had to keep his hatch open and, as a result, was shot in the helmet.

Having driven out of the ambush, he singlehandedly evacuated his platoon, commander and gunner from the stricken vehicle, still under enemy fire.

The following month, after recovering from his wounds, his vehicle was ambushed again. This time, a rocket-propelled grenade hit the front of the warrior. Severely injured, he again drove his vehicle out of the ambush, passing out into a coma once clear.

Johnson Beharry | Ambushed

Just a few weeks later, on May 11, 2004, recovered from his wounds,  Johnson’s vehicle was ambushed again. This time, a rocket-propelled grenade struck the front of the Warrior vehicle, exploding 6 inches from his head and blasting shrapnel into his face, head and brain. 

Despite being seriously injured with head wounds and temporary blindness, Johnson once again took control of the situation. He manoeuvred the vehicle through the streets under heavy fire, evacuating his crew to safety and preventing further casualties. His extraordinary presence of mind and leadership in the face of overwhelming danger saved 30+ lives.

Johnson Beharry | The Victoria Cross

Johnson was awarded the Victoria Cross on March 18, 2005, for his valor. His citation highlighted his exceptional bravery and devotion to duty during the two separate incidents in Iraq. The Victoria Cross is awarded for acts of “the most conspicuous bravery or some daring or pre-eminent act of valour or self-sacrifice,” and Johnson’s actions undoubtedly exemplified these qualities.

Johnson’s award was a significant moment, as he became the first living recipient of the Victoria Cross since 1969 and the first soldier to receive it in the 21st century. His story captured the public’s imagination, and he became a symbol of modern heroism.

Johnson Beharry | Life After the Military

The injuries Johnson sustained in Iraq required long-term medical treatment, and he has since become an advocate for veterans and those dealing with the physical and psychological scars of war.

He has talked openly about his struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and his recovery journey, using his platform to raise awareness about the importance of mental health support for soldiers returning from combat.

In addition to his advocacy work, Johnson has been involved in various charitable efforts. He has supported causes related to veterans’ welfare and worked with organisations focused on supporting young people, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

In 2006, Johnson published his autobiography, Barefoot Soldier, in which he details his life story, from his childhood in Grenada to his experiences in Iraq and the impact of those events on his life.

Johnson is also the founder of the JBVC Foundation, a charity that aims to provide role models and support to enable the youth to leave gangs.

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