Jim,
Thanks for the Library of Virginia link and the James W Johnson pension application. I had scanned that site earlier but missed the fact that his claim is based on service in the 17th VA Inf. From what I've seen in census info, he's not the James Johnson I'm seeking. I'll continue with the Compiled Service records search as you first suggested to try to come to an understanding of the James Johnson who died in service. And I'll be on the lookout for Benjamin Franklin Field when I go thru the Episcopal Church records for Alexandria tomorrow.
Steve Balcom