Enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was a Gunner’s mate aboard the USS Essex (CVA 9). After the military he settled in CA where he met & married his 1st wife Sarah Eddleman and raised three children.

Jim proudly served aboard the USS Essex (CVA –9) during the Korean War. He served at Sea… “Sea Service” continuously for 2 years, 11 months and 1 day.