This collection documents the World War II military service of Frank R. Johnson who served in North Africa and Italy. Included is Johnson’s personal diary as well as copies of letters and other papers from the time.

Johnson’s handwritten diary entries begin November 7, 1942, while traveling at sea to North Africa. Almost daily entries continue through September 1945. Johnson’s entries document his daily activities and duties, interactions with fellow soldiers, and his movements throughout North Africa and Italy. The entries end in September 1945 when Johnson boards a ship to head back to the United States. The diary also includes Johnson’s service record and notes about people he met at camp and abroad.

Also in the collection are photocopies of letters, newspaper clippings, military documents, and other papers from Johnson’s military service. Some of these items relate to Johnson’s brother, Richard “Dick” Johnson (1920-2010), who also served in WWII.