Arkansas’ first Iraq war casualty honored at American Legion Auxiliary fashion show

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (KATV) — A fallen Arkansan’s legacy is getting a stylish spotlight this weekend, as the American Legion Auxiliary prepares to honor Michael Vann Johnson during its annual Rooted and Rising Fashion Show.

Johnson, a graduate of Parkview High School, was the first Arkansan to be killed while fighting in Iraq in 2003. The American Legion Auxiliary Michael Vann Johnson Unit 74 is hosting the Rooted and Rising Fashion Show this Sunday as one of its major fundraisers.

Organizer Pam said the event is designed to bring the community together for a fun afternoon while supporting the group’s work. Tickets are $15, and the show will include vendors and refreshments. She also said the fashion show features five different categories and is held every year.

Janisa, Johnson’s sister who said she is the oldest sibling, shared memories of her brother and what it means to see his name carried forward through the unit and the event. She said many people know him as “Michael, the fallen service person, Navy corpsman,” but to his family he was “Mikey.” She described him as “fun, playful, a jokester,” adding that he loved basketball, animals and his family, and that “he loved helping people.”

She also said continuing the namesake is personal for her family. She said their father previously held the position connected to carrying on Johnson’s legacy, and that he died in 2020. With their mother still living, she said she felt it was time for her to step in and “continue my brother’s legacy.”

As for what to expect on the runway, organizers teased a variety of looks, including a category that can feature African attire. Two models, Andre and Crystal, were highlighted as part of the show’s lineup, with organizers praising their presence and style.

The Rooted and Rising Fashion Show is set for this Sunday, with organizers encouraging the community to come out, enjoy the event and support the fundraiser.