BiographyMark “The Spark” Johnson
A genuine American hero, Mark Johnson inspires audiences world wide with his fascinating and scintillating accomplishments of 21 years spent as a Green Beret/Special Forces officer. One of America’s brightest stars on the motivational speaking circuit, he is dynamic, entertaining, humorous, and has incredible passion. His energy is infectious as he details death-defying feats of courage and survival in Iraq and Somalia, ("Blackhawk Down").
Mark speaks to a wide variety of organizations and especially loves to assist in character and leader development to our nations youth. He frequently delivers keynotes and seminars to both high school and university audiences. His goal is to motivate the audience to believe in themselves by overcoming all odds and achieve excellence through dedication, preparation, and inspiration.
A real-life combination of James Bond and Rambo, he commanded specially-trained and educated teams that our nation selected for the most dangerous and hazardous missions. He conducted sensitive and classified operations in more than fifty-five countries throughout Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Highly decorated, included among his more than twenty-five awards are the Bronze Star, earned for his heroic leadership during the Gulf War. A master parachutist, he has performed more than two-hundred jumps, and has been awarded the advanced parachutist badges from fourteen nations.
In his last military assignment, as chairman of the military science department at Pittsburg (KS) State University, he established a NATIONAL RECORD for attracting students to attend a summer leadership camp, more than doubling the 47-year-old previous mark! This marks stands today as a testiment to his success and ability to reach out and effect others in a positive way and lead them to success
Mark inspired those in his care to fearlessly excel despite enormous odds. He motivates people to action, providing them with a plan and formula for success to overcome all adversity and achieve excellence. He inspires community involvement, servitude, and devotion to hard work.
He has authored the book: “How To Get Anyone To Follow You Anywhere: Green Beret Secrets to Leadership and Team Building”; and has a second book due out in January 2005.