There’s little doubt hundreds, if not thousands, of people have a high regard for Shelton Johnson, the recently retired Yosemite National Park ranger who has had a worldwide impact.
That was evident at his recent retirement party in El Portal, where renowned filmmaker Ken Burns recorded a video message honoring Johnson. That message was played during the celebration.
Here are a couple of other testimonials about Johnson:
• Bill Brownell, chairman of the board of the National Park Trust. “Almost 20 years ago, at the suggestion of former NPS Director Bob Stanton, the National Park Trust introduced its youth and family programs to connect young people with parks. Without a new generation of park stewards to cherish and protect these important lands, the future of our nation’s parks would be cloudy. In his work with young people, Shelton is one of the most impressive park stewards we have met in our decades of protecting and enhancing our parks. Shelton understands the importance of young people to our parks and has been an inspiration to many in his work at Yosemite. We are sad to see such an outstanding public servant retire, but we look forward to carrying on the work he championed to train and promote a new generation of conservationists.”
• Grace Lee, executive director of the National Park Trust. “Shelton, I will always remember when we recognized you with our 2022 American Park Experience Award for your extraordinary efforts and leadership in raising the awareness and appreciation of our national parks through your compelling, transformative storytelling. That day in Yosemite with our board, staff and many of your peers was our way of thanking you for all you’ve done for our national parks and the people, especially children, you’ve impacted. You are a national treasure! Congratulations on your incredible career with NPS.”
In a related matter, KSEE TV reporter Sydney Charles and photojournalist Kevin Mahan were nominated for a 2026 Northern California Emmy Award for featuring Johnson is a video documentary under the “historical/cultural” category.
The video was entitled “Buffalo Soldier” and featured Johnson and his nearly lifelong mission of telling the story.
There are many more awards, honors and recognitions Johnson has received over the years and, who knows, maybe more to come in his retirement where another book is being planned and probably much more.
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