Spirit of Freedom Award Presented to Todd Johnson

On Veterans Day, Todd Johnson, Director of the Veterans Student Service Center, received the Spirit of Freedom Award from U.S. Senator Mike Crapo. The award was presented during Idaho State University's Veterans Day event by Farhana Hibbert, on behalf of Senator Crapo.

Johnson was nominated by Bannock County Veteran Services Officer Melissa Hartman and a group of Idaho State student veterans.

Johnson served as an Airborne Infantryman in the U.S. Army and is Director of the Veteran Student Service Center at Idaho State University.  Johnson earned many recognitions during his four years of military service that include the Army Achievement Medal, Good Conduct Medal, Army Service Ribbon and many more. Johnson is known as someone who is there for veterans long after the normal workday. He is kind and compassionate with an extraordinary willingness to listen. Johnson and his wife, Tanya, have a daughter, and they care for ISU’s Veteran Student Service Center Support Animal, Hero. 

Melissa Hartman, Coordinator for Bannock County Veterans Services, wrote, “Todd is the best friend of anyone he meets.  His generosity and sincerity have a way of calming those around him and reassuring them in times of high stress and life changes.”

Since 2002, Senator Crapo has had the honor of recognizing the remarkable service of Idahoans with the Spirit of Freedom: Idaho Veterans Service Award. This award is presented in two categories:  veterans and volunteers who assist veterans.  Biographies of the inspiring Idahoans who have received the Spirit of Freedom Award in recent years can be accessed via the links below.  The award recipients are representative of the many Idahoans who give so much of themselves in service to our nation and continue to give immensely helping fellow veterans and others in Idaho communities.