A Syracuse University alum and historic figure for the Syracuse City School District, was recently added to the list of the University’s Notable Veteran Alumni. Sidney L. Johnson ’59, G’65, a U.S. Air Force veteran, is now among 18 other influential members who have graduated from Syracuse University and have made a substantial impact during or after their military service.
Johnson, originally from Summerville, Georgia, served in the military for more than two decades, during which he served with the historic Tuskegee Airmen. He also earned the rank of Major before retirement, an almost insurmountable challenge during the days of segregation, as well as a testament to his performance in service to the country.
He dedicated himself to the City of Syracuse after he retired from the military, then moved to the area with his wife Vivienne, along with their two daughters, Melinda and Cydney.
Cydney Johnson ’77, G’96, Syracuse University’s vice president of community engagement and government relations, was invited to unveil her father’s plaque during a surprise ceremony held in the National Veterans Resource Center (NVRC). On hand to share in the touching moment were Cydney’s husband, Jeffry Comanici ‘88, as well as staff, faculty and students from the military-connected community.