Fairfield High School graduate Alexander Johnson has been awarded by USO (United Service Organizations) Europe for dedication and service to the nation.

Johnson was one of 12 honorees receiving an award commemorating the “longstanding history of cooperation between the U.S. and German armed forces,” the USO said in a news release. Seven servicemen from the U.S. and five from Germany received the honor. The event was held last week in Kaiserslautern, Germany.

Johnson graduated from Fairfield High School in 2004. He then studied computer engineering for two years at Ohio State University before joining the U.S. Army in August 2006.

Following his Basic Training, he was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 187th Regiment, Anti-Armor Company, at Fort Campbell, Ky. In February 2010, he was reassigned to the 3rd Infantry Division at Fort Stewart, Ga., as an information systems specialist. During this period, Johnson completed the Army Basic Airborne School at Fort Benning, Ga., and the U.S. Army Air Assault School at Fort Campbell, Ky.

Most recently, Johnson was assigned to the HSC 1st Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (airborne) at Special Operations Command, Europe, as a senior information systems specialist.

“During this assignment he has continued to distinguish himself by relentlessly seeking out responsibility and displaying unwavering dedication to the unit. His attention to detail and ability to multi-task have set him apart from his peers,” according to the USO.

Johnson and his wife, Ashley, are parents to an 11-month-old son, Nicholas. Johnson said his goals are to complete his college degree and to serve as a role model for other soldiers.