George W. (1901-1988) and Alice M. (1905-1991) Johnston were both active in the American Legion, the Red Cross, and social services during the 1940s. Alice Johnston was awarded a Special Services Certificate by the American Red Cross in Home Services. She was also president of the Irving School PTA in 1939-40. George Johnston was very active in Company K of the Illinois Reserve Militia, achieving the rank of Captain in 1942.
The Johnstons were a big part of the local community’s involvement in the World War II home front effort as their many awards reflected.
This collection includes materials from Alice Johnston’s Red Cross volunteer activities and her PTA involvement. George and Alice were both involved in American Legion. George Johnston was commissioned as Captain of the Militia by the Governor of the State of Illinois. His time with Illinois Reserve Militia is well documented in photos and newspaper articles. Alice Johnston’s well organized leather binder documents her time as president of the American Legion Auxiliary.