Honoring Our Veterans

Born in Salida, Colorado 1941; lived in Gallup, MN 1941-1988. James proudly served in the US Navy as Electronic Tech 2nd Class (E-5). Enlisted in November 1963, basic training at RTC-San Diego, ET “A” school Treasure Island CA, ET “C” school NW Radio Station, VA. July 1965, Jim was assigned to Naval Security Group Activity at RAF-Edzell, Scotland; Spec Comm division. Primary job was radio maintenance, secondary as radioman utilizing the huge Wullenweber antenna system (the giraffe cage). He was very active in the base Rod and Gun Club on base. He enjoyed many hours of hunting and fishing with Scottish friends. He toured many historic sites throughout Scotland. He met his first wife there, (a high fatality rate for singles stated there!)” James credits two major influences for shaping his life. The first was his father, and the second was the Navy. They instilled in him direction, discipline, and a strong sense of purpose for a lifetime. Reflecting on military service, Jim believes every young man should serve at least two years in the military, including one year overseas, to gain a greater appreciation for the freedoms enjoyed in the United States. His advice to young people considering military service is simple: work hard in school. Good grades can open the door to better training opportunities and career assignments in the military. Following his Navy service, James worked for NCR tech service, repairing cash registers and computers. In 1970 he returned to the Sante Fe RR where he began his career in engine service at age 18, and spent the next 37 years operating trains between Belen NM and Winslow AZ. He made Sunflower his home in 2016.