Vice-Admiral James 'Johnny' Johnson SSA SM DSC (10 February 1918 – 2 October 1990) was a former Chief of the South African Navy (1 April 1972 to 30 September 1977).

After his ship was sunk in Suda Bay, Crete, he joined HMS Jed,[1] which took part in the Battle of the Atlantic from 1942 to 1943.

[5] He commanded the Rothesay-class frigate SAS President Pretorius when she was delivered from Britain in 1964, in the rank of captain.

1969 he was promoted to flag rank and appointed Chief of Naval Staff.

The citation in the London Gazette reads: For outstanding courage, enterprise and devotion to duty in action with enemy submarines while serving in H.M.S.