Interviewed by:

Sabrina Santos and Emma Warren

"I was not one that would want to kill somebody.
I didn't when I came in, and didn't when I came out."

~ Paul Johnson (20:09)

Paul Johnson's Story:

Paul grew up in Newton, Massachusetts and was one of eight children. He attended Fitchburg State College for two years, then transferred to the University of Maine. When he finished his junior year, he was drafted for the Vietnam War . After completing his basic training, Paul went to Fort Belvoir as an electrical engineer. By the time he finished the course, they were asking for volunteers for Vietnam. Paul volunteered and went over on May 17th, 1967. While he served in the military, certain experiences caused Paul to lose most of his emotions. He says it has taken a toll on him, whether it is with his relationship or in daily life. He left the service in May of '68 and was put on reserved status. Paul finished college and worked as a cook in the summer. After two years of working, he was offered the position as owner of the restaurant. He later bought his own restaurant in Wellfleet and ran it for twenty-two years, then began working at the Eastham Superette where he still works today.