On July 19, 2005, nineteen year old U.S. Army Private First Class LaVena Johnson (above) died near the city of Balad in Iraq.
The Army ruled her death a suicide. Even though as her father Dr. John Johnson of Florissant, Missouri points out, LaVena's teeth were loose, she had a busted lip and a blood trail was found outside her tent. And a fire may have been set at her tent.
Also LaVena according to the Army died of a gunshot wound to the head. Subsequent residue tests revealed there were no indications she fired a weapon. As well even though the Army declared PFC. Johnson's death a suicide, the Army could not produce any evidence of suicidal indicators on her record. The Army has not re-opened the investigation into PFC. Johnson's death.
Also it appears 'mainstream' media has little or no interest in the death of LaVena Johnson, as it did in the death of ex-NFL football player and U.S. Army soldier Pat Tillman. An internet search looking for information about PFC. Johnson listed articles by bloggers and one result from Randi Rhodes of Air America radio.
LaVena's Father Dr. Johnson continues to speak on behalf of his fallen daughter in hopes of getting the Army to re-open the official investigation of her death. There is an online petition hoping to compel the Army to re-open the case as well. If you would like to help force the U.S. Army to re-investigate the death of PFC. LaVena Johnson please visit The PFC. LaVena Johnson Petition for information.
