Jim served in the U.S. Air Force as a Crew Chief on F-84 Aircraft during the Korean War. He served as Maintenance Supervisor on the A-1 Aircraft during the Vietnam War. Jim enlisted in the U.S. Air Force on July 13, 1951 and retired May 31, 1980.

 Jim served in the U.S. Air Force for 28 years, 10 months, 18 days. He received the following Decorations, Medals, and Campaign Ribbons:

   --Meritorious Service Medal w/3 olc

   --Air Force Commendation Medals w/3 olc

   --NCO Academy Rbn

   --Army Good Conduct Medal w/2 olc

   --Korean Service Medal

   --Air Force Longevity Service Medal w/5 olc

   --National Defense Service Medal

   --Vietnam Service Medal

   --Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal

   --United Nations Service Medal

   --Air Force Good Conduct Medal w/6 olc

   --Air Force Presidential Citation

   --Air Force Outstanding Unit Award