07/10/2025
The Opha May Johnson Memorial in Kokomo, Indiana, serves as a tribute to a local pioneer. Johnson was one of the first women to enlist in the Marine Corps during World War I at the age of 39. She joined the Marine Corps Reserve on August 13, 1918, officially earning the title of the first female Marine. On September 11, 1918, she achieved the rank of sergeant, making her the highest-ranking female Marine of that time. Johnson's service concluded when she was discharged on February 28, 1919.
Exceeding its goal of $50,000, IHCDA was able to match the grant and make this a reality. This project was led by Jerry Paul, a colorful storyteller who believed in honoring legacies and ensuring everyone had a place in history. His determination for this memorial was unwavering, declaring, “We’re going to Tiffany’s for Opha May.”
Jerry’s ambition led him to collaborate with Benjamin Victor, a world-renowned sculptor whose works are presented in the Statuary Hall in Washington, D.C, and who recently dedicated sculptures to Normandy. Kokomo is notably the home of eight of his (Victor’s) creations.
A challenge that arose during the creation of the memorial was finding photographs of Opha May Johnson in uniform. Despite searching through archives, a definitive image of AI photos was not found. Jerry, committed to historical accuracy, insisted on using pictures that were verified likenesses. In addition to the challenge of finding a verified photograph of Opha May, there were other obstacles, including relocations due to rejection by individuals within the courthouse. Despite battling a grave illness during this period, Jerry’s commitment never wavered. He even attended the Commissioners' meeting where he nearly collapsed, viewing this as his final endeavor.
Ultimately, Victor created a 36-inch round bronze cameo of her likeness for the memorial, complementing the bronze work with an inscription detailing her life and a Kokomo-stained glass globe and anchor to symbolize the Marine Corps. A last-minute setback involving a wrought iron component, which fell through, was later resolved, further highlighting the persistence of the efforts involved.
The Opha May Johnson Memorial was dedicated on November 11, Veterans Day, in a truly emotional ceremony. The arrival of Jerry, strapped in a wheelchair from the Indiana Veterans Home, accompanied by the first female Marine general, in the very Huey helicopter Jerry piloted during the Vietnam War, was a moment of significance. The ceremony was marked by a sense of admiration and gratitude for the sacrifices made by these brave individuals. Just a month before his passing, Jerry received special recognition for the Congressional Gold Medal Awarded to the Dusk-off helicopter crews from Vietnam, alongside proclamations from the mayor and governor.
Jerry’s dedication to his project was fueled by his deep passion and artistic background, a trait shared by his entire family. His commitment to the Opha May Johnson Memorial was not just a project, but a labor of love, a testament to his artistic vision and his desire to honor Opha May's legacy. He was described as a “get’er done kind of guy” who remained committed to his values and could assemble the right people to bring his grand visions to life—remembrance of Jerry Paul, January 6, 1949- May 3, 2025. His collaborator and cousin, Robin Williams, was able to share this project with us.
