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FORT KNOX, Ky. — Many who know Shirley Johnson see him as a trim man full of vigor and sound advice. Those who knew him prior to 2015 likely don’t recognize him.
That’s because for the past six years, the Fort Knox Army Substance Abuse Program specialist has committed himself to shedding 100+ pounds and keeping it off.
“I started out extremely obese. That was the word that was given to me,” said Johnson. “I went from extremely obese, to obese, to overweight, to fit. I was basically the same person I am today, just bigger.”
One of two ASAP specialists at the installation offices, Johnson spends much of his day encouraging others. His job encompasses three jobs: Risk Reduction Program coordinator; Suicide Prevention Program manager; and when needed, the Prevention coordinator — most of which involves him sitting behind a computer screen due to COVID-19 restrictions.