About

Johnnie Yellock II - Wounded Warrior
I’M HUMBLED AND HONORED TO SHARE A STORY

That Encourages Others To Tell Their Own

Coming from a dual Veteran family, Johnnie enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 2007 after completing his undergraduate in Manufacturing Engineering from Tarleton State University in Stephenville, TX. Johnnie was a USAF Special Operations Combat Controller and would serve two combat tours in the Middle East.
In 2011, on Johnnie’s second deployment to Afghanistan, an improvised explosive device struck his vehicle, injuring both of his legs. Johnnie received the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Combat Action Medal for his actions that day. He spent the next three years in rehabilitation and has endured 33 limb-salvage surgeries to date, allowing him to keep both of his legs. During his recovery, Johnnie found that physical pain paled in comparison to the mental, emotional and social traumas that are all too present following such a course-altering event and couldn’t have put himself back together alone. It was the dedication and love of my family and so many friends that ensured my recovery was successful.
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THE IMPORTANCE OF
FRIENDS, FAMILY AND FAITH

“Something that’s going to get you out of bed every day and continue to push you forward when you feel like giving in.” said Johnnie, “For me, that was always my family. And since my injury, it’s been the same. It’s been my friends and my family, and my faith that keeps me sustained and motivated.”
ADVERSITY CREATES OPPORTUNITY

Johnnie's Transition from Military Service to a Civilian Mission

Have something in your mind worth fighting for. Something bigger than yourself!
Johnnie was medically retired, with a 100% full and permanent disability rating, from active duty on November 27, 2013. As soon as he was able, Johnnie played golf throughout his recovery process and was invited to compete in the 2013 George W. Bush Warrior Open. He would describe that as “a life changing opportunity for fellowship with other service members in the company of our President.” He was featured, as one of nearly 100 wounded warriors painted by the President, in the book, “Portraits of Courage”. Since his separation from active duty, the same has been true about “fighting for something bigger than himself”. The transition from military to civilian sector was a smooth one. The only change really, was the uniform. The mission of serving others remained as he began public speaking, sharing his experiences and perspectives from the battlefield, and highlighting the many similarities.
Johnnie Yellock II with George W. Bush

SERVICE NEVER ENDS

“I joined the military and deployed to Afghanistan to keep us safe at home. As a Public Speaker, the arena and uniform have changed, but the mission remains – Serving others.”  
He’s dedicated to serving and representing his fellow Veterans and wounded servicemen through non-profit organizations listed above. He hasn’t stopped sharing his message of “overcoming adversity through positivity” at speaking engagements nationally. Johnnie encourages everyone, especially fellow veterans, to share their experiences as well.
OUR TESTIMONIAL

What People Are Saying

When we first met Staff Sergeant Johnnie Yellock three years ago, he was simply known as our local hometown hero moving into the neighborhood. Adkins Elementary wanted to celebrate him and his heroism, but in return, in pure Yellock style, we were awed by the manner in which he connected with our students. During assemblies, he would have the entire school, adults and children alike, hanging onto his every word. His natural ability to relate complex concepts in an easy to understand manner has helped Adkins Aviators understand what it means to serve our country and to see our military servicemen and women as the Guardians of our peace. SSgt Yellock embodies our mission of Learn. Connect. Serve.

Erin Vennel, Principal, Dorothy P. Adkins Elementary, Denton ISD

What Johnnie brought to a gymnasium full of middle school students must have been laced with some sort of unfamiliar magic. It’s not often this principal sees over six-hundred thirteen year old students so captivated, each processing the message Johnnie so eloquently delivered. I appreciate the way Johnnie tailors his message for his audience, sacrificing nothing of patriotic passion, but smartly shaping his points that then resonate with those fortunate enough to hear them.

Ryan Wilson, Carroll Sr. High School

You didn’t just present a “story,” you connected with a group that possesses their own struggles with what the future holds. Your experience spoke to not only veterans, but anyone who faces challenges. Hearing how your military dreams were literally crushed and how you chose to overcome and see your dreams in a different light is such a universal lesson for us all. So many commented that your energy, spirit, love for our country, and love for the Lord was inspiring. Veterans in the group still talk about the connection they felt with you and others in the group said they could “listen to you all day” due to the easy way in which you presented. Personally, I am honored to know you and call you friend! May God continue to bless and enrich your life and you share your life with others!

Whites Chapel UMC

It is my pleasure to recommend Johnnie Yellock II as a speaker who can, and does have a significant impact on his audiences! Jonnie ministered to our men at our Military Appreciation Breakfast with a powerful and passionate message for them. Johnnie was engaging, entertaining, and knew how to bring the message home. A perfect speaker for us on all fronts!

Pastor Rich Green - Compass Church

COMMANDS A ROOM OF OVER 500 AND DELIVERS A MESSAGE, CATERED TO THE AUDIENCE, that hits home every time!

SHELLY L. – CARRINGTON CHARITABLE FOUNDATION

VETERAN NON-PROFITS

I’m Proud My Support

Supporting veteran non-profits is a powerful way to contribute to the well-being and success of those who have served our country.
Combat Control Foundation
Special Operations Warrior Foundation
The Mark Forester Foundation
Boots For Warriors
Veterans Airlift Command
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