The Alaska State Legislature formally honored Ada a month after her death, on June 16th, 1983, stating “a small token of remembrance for a woman whose bravery and heroic deeds have gone unnoticed for so many years.” A representative also added, “I deeply regret that we were not able to serve Ada with this citation while she was alive.” The honor read: “Not many Alaskans remember this soft-spoken and vital woman. In the years following her heroic feat, she was forgotten by most people who knew of her ordeal. The middle years of her life were not pleasant, although we are convinced she would have been the last to complain. We urge Alaskans to become familiar with the story of Ada Blackjack Johnson who recently passed away in Palmer. From her story, we can each gain an insight into the life and personal courage of a resident of our state who survived under unbearable circumstances only to be forgotten by her friends and neighbors. It is our duty and our obligation to honor Ada Blackjack Johnson for her astounding courage, her spiritual strength, and her commitment to her fellow man.
— Campfire Stories: Astonishing History, Two Incredible Stories of Sole Survivors: Juliane Koepcke and Ada Blackjack Johnson
