The damage prevention community in Mississippi is celebrating a true champion with the announcement of Fred Johnson of Mississippi 811 as the 2025 Q2 Damage Prevention Hero. For many years, Fred has been a
cornerstone of the state’s efforts to ensure excavation safety and protect vital underground infrastructure. As he has recently celebrated his achievements through retirement, the outpouring of respect and appreciation from colleagues underscores the profound and lasting impact he has had on the industry.
James Keith, Gas Division Operations Manager at TL Wallace Construction, fondly recalls meeting Fred three years ago. “He is the type of person you like as soon as you meet him,” Keith shares, emphasizing Fred’s immediate warmth and engaging personality. Keith credits Fred with opening his eyes to the
critical importance of damage prevention through his invitation to join 811 legislative meetings and participate on a panel as an excavator to help with the dig laws. “He is a great leader and will leave a
legacy of knowledge to those he mentored during his tender in the damage prevention industry,” Keith adds, lamenting that he hadn’t met Fred earlier in his career. He also notes Fred’s exceptional ability to connect people, stating, “I also have him to thank for all the wonderful people I have met through him; he keeps great company.”
Bill Rutledge, MS Rural Water & Public Works Liaison, who has worked alongside Fred at MS811 for fifteen years, speaks to Fred’s unparalleled expertise. “Under the leadership of Fred, [he] was the one to go to for the definition of the dig laws to be exact, not assumed!” Rutledge highlights the personal sacrifices Fred and his brother Sam made for the operation of MS811, concluding emphatically, “I know of no other that is more deserving than Fred Johnson as Damage Prevention Hero. God Bless Him.”
Sandy Sanford, Mississippi Damage Prevention Committee Lobbyist, praises Fred Johnson: A Legacy of
Leadership in Mississippi Damage Prevention Fred’s exceptional interpersonal and leadership skills. “Fred has the ideal demeanor and leadership skills to navigate damage prevention challenges,” Sanford states.
Beyond his extensive knowledge, Fred’s ability to listen and develop fair and simple solutions stands out. “Whether dealing with utilities, locaters, excavators, local governments, legislators, or others, Fred treats the impacted stakeholder with respect, seeks solutions that are fair and simple, and executes the remedial
plan as quickly as possible.” Sanford further emphasizes Fred’s selfless dedication, noting that he is “solely focused on damage prevention processes and outcomes, and never on personal recognition or accolades.”
Jerry Kennemur, MS811 Damage Prevention Coordinator, who has known Fred for over four decades and worked with him for twenty, speaks to his enduring character and deep knowledge. “Fred has always been a man with integrity and high moral character,” Kennemur affirms. “With Fred you always knew where you stood and if you needed help, he would be there. I think he could quote the Dig Law by heart and was always willing to help with any issue that might come up.” Kennemur also touches on Fred's engaging personality, adding, “Fred has a dry humor about him that you can’t help but like.”
Fred Johnson’s career at Mississippi 811 has been marked by his unwavering commitment to damage prevention, his exceptional leadership qualities, his deep understanding of the dig laws, and his genuine care for the people he works with. As he embarks on retirement, Fred leaves behind a legacy of knowledge, mentorship, and a profound dedication to safety that will continue to benefit the state of Mississippi for years to come. He is a truly deserving recipient of the 2025 Q2 Damage Prevention Hero award.