Wallace A. Johnson, 99, a pioneering aviator and the last surviving test pilot for Apollo 11, passed away peacefully March 20, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. A dedicated and fearless pilot, Wallace played a critical role in the success of the historic 1969 moon landing, training the astronauts who took humanity’s first steps on another world.
Born in Taft, California, in 1925, Wallace’s life was defined by courage, dedication, and service. As a young man, he answered the call of duty during World War II. Joining the Navy on September 30th, 1941, Wallace was assigned to the USS Jamestown, a Torpedo Boat Tender. He tells a story of a B25 lost flying in the pacific in the middle of the night in a storm that couldn’t communicate. Wallace used an Aidis Light, a long tube that has a light at the end, used to communicate at night in morse code that a pilot can see. The captain followed the heading Wallace communicated to him and flew to Zamboanga, Philippines. Two days later the same B-25 flew over the ship and buzzed them multiple times because the crew wanted to thank Wallace for saving them.
For Wallace’s heroic actions, the USS Jamestown received a letter of commendation. Later serving with distinction in the Battle of Guadalcanal, he was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation, a testament to his unwavering commitment to his country, He went on to serve for 30 years in the Navy, finishing his career on the USS Hornet CVA 12 where he served as the Chief Electronics Technician.
Following his military service, Wallace pursued his passion for aviation, becoming a skilled test pilot and joining North American Aviation. His expertise and steady hand ensured that Apollo 11’s crew—Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins—were prepared for the challenges of space. Wallace designed control layouts, tested spacesuits, and authored the operational manuals that guided astronauts through their historic missions, training them for the challenges they would face beyond Earth’s atmosphere. His expertise and dedication helped ensure the safety and success of the Apollo 11 crew. His work helped shape a pivotal moment in history, cementing his legacy among the greats of the space age.
Beyond his contributions to space exploration, Wallace was a devoted family man, mentor, and friend. He inspired generations with his stories, his wisdom, and his unwavering belief in the power of human ingenuity. His impact will be felt for decades to come.
Wallace is survived by his wife, Virginia Silva, stepchildren, Vicky Silvestre and Charles Brown as well as his brothers Eric and Bobby, along with countless nieces and nephews, friends, colleagues, and admirers who will forever cherish his memory. A service celebrating his remarkable life will be held on April 5, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Clubhouse at 1777 Shoreline Drive in Alameda.
His final flight may have ended, but his legacy continues to soar among the stars.
You can also learn more about his incredible life here:
