Wayzata Native Retires After 26 Years In U.S. Navy

WAYZATA, MN — A Wayzata native has retired from the United States Navy after 26 years of military service.

Senior Chief Musician Randy Johnson retired April 27 during a ceremony held in his honor at the Washington Navy Yard in Washington, D.C., where the United States Navy Band is headquartered.

Johnson served with the United States Navy Band, the Navy's premier musical organization.

He was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal, third award, for his leadership and service, according to Navy officials.

As a senior chief, Johnson was among fewer than 2 percent of enlisted sailors to earn the E-8 pay grade, according to the Navy.

Johnson earned a Bachelor of Music from Indiana University in 1998 and a Master of Music from the New England Conservatory in 2000.

The Navy is commemorating its contributions to national defense this year as the United States prepares to mark 250 years of independence.