Corporal Jerry Johs was born in White Fish, Montana and raised in Southeast Portland, Oregon alongside his older sister and twin brother. As a young man, Johs enjoyed working with his hands in woodshop and metal shop in school. While still enrolled in high school, Johs enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in February 1968, seeking education and on the job training. Johs enjoyed the camaraderie and sense of purpose that the military offered, as well as the education he received. Johs served with Lima Company 3-1 in Vietnam.
While on a search and discovery mission for North Vietnamese bunkers, Johs was injured by an explosive device, resulting in the loss of both of his legs above the knee. He was transported to a hospital in Denang where he resided for two weeks before being transported via aircraft, first to the Philippines due to uncontrollable bleeding during travel, and then finally to his originally intended destination, Oak Knoll Navy Hospital in California, where he stayed for approximately six months before his medical retirement on December 31, 1969. Johs was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor, the Purple Heart, and Combat Action Ribbon for his bravery and heroism.
Currently, Johs lives in Springfield, Oregon where he enjoys making knives and woodworking. Johs has stated that receiving a home from the Tunnel to Towers Foundation will allow him to live more comfortably and will make his life easier. Johs is predeceased by his twin brother, Terry, who was wounded six weeks prior to his own injury and passed away in 1992 due to complications from the aforementioned injuries.