At Cibolo House at Morningside at Menger Springs resides retiree Hansford Tillman “H.T.” Johnson, a remarkable figure with an extraordinary legacy. Born on January 3, 1936, in Aiken, South Carolina, H.T.’s journey is one that spans continents, generations, and countless milestones, both in the air and on the ground.
H.T.’s military career is one for the history books. After graduating from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1959 as part of its first graduating class, he went on to become the only retired Air Force officer to ever serve as the Acting U.S. Secretary of the Navy under President George W. Bush. Over the course of his illustrious career, H.T. rose through the ranks to become a 4-star general in the U.S. Air Force, flying more than 7,800 hours, including 1,000 combat hours in missions across Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
H.T.’s service to his country saw him participate in some of the most pivotal operations in military history, including Operation Just Cause, Desert Shield, and Desert Storm. As the final commander of the Military Airlift Command and the first commander of the Air Mobility Command, H.T. played a crucial role in the largest airlift operation in American history. His leadership was instrumental in moving troops, equipment, and supplies during the Gulf War, and his work continues to be a hallmark of military excellence.
During his time in the Air Force, H.T. was not just a commander but also an educator. After completing his master’s degrees in aeronautics at Stanford and business at The University of Colorado, he taught as an assistant professor at the U.S. Air Force Academy, imparting his knowledge to future generations of military leaders.
H.T.’s life beyond the military is equally remarkable, marked by his deep connection to family. After graduating from the Air Force Academy, he married his first wife, Linda Whittle, and together they built a lifetime of cherished memories. They were blessed with two children, Richard and Beth, and six grandchildren. Linda passed away in 2011, surrounded by her devoted family.
In 2012, H.T. found love again with Ann Doris Johnson, whom he married in Boerne, Texas. Doris, whom he had known from his days at USAA, brought a new chapter of love and companionship into his life, further enriching his extraordinary journey.
In the peaceful environment of Cibolo House, H.T. continues to enjoy life’s simple pleasures, reflecting on a career that touched the lives of many and a legacy that will last for generations to come. His story is one of leadership, love, and service—traits that make him an outstanding member of our Cibolo community.
