Johnny G. Cordell served in the Army and Tennessee National Guard.  He served locally as a Sequatchie County Commissioner and was the School Superintendent for many years.  He is a life member of the VFW and of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 203.

He is married to the former Sharon Smith.  They have two sons, Travis and Tracey, and five grandchildren.

 Johnny earned his VFW eligibility in Vietnam and the Gulf War.