JOHNNIE WILSON
It’s a long way from buck private to four-star general. Even longer when you’re black. But 1973 UNO graduate Johnnie Wilson made it every step of the way. Wilson in 1996 became just the third black four-star general in the U.S. Army’s 223-year history, becoming so by nomination of President Bill Clinton. With his fourth star he took command of Army Materiel Command, responsible for providing supplies and equipment to troops around the world. Wilson began his career in 1961 as a 17-yearold enlisted soldier. Earning his degree at UNO, where he was a member of the student council and president of the Pen and Sword Society, enabled him to become an officer. The highly decorated Vietnam veteran held three company commands during his Army career, including time at the Pentagon and with the 21st Theater Army Area in Europe. He retired from the Army in 1999.