Daniel James III facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Daniel James III
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Lieutenant General Daniel James III
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| Born | September 7, 1945 Tuskegee, Alabama |
| Died | August 1, 2017 (aged 71) Washington, D.C. |
| Allegiance | United States |
| Service/ |
United States Air Force |
| Years of service | 1968–2006 |
| Rank | Lieutenant General |
| Commands held | Air National Guard Texas National Guard 149th Operations Group Director, Air National Guard |
| Battles/wars | Vietnam War |
| Awards | Air Force Distinguished Service Medal (2) Legion of Merit Distinguished Flying Cross (2) |
| Relations | General Daniel James Jr. (father) |
Daniel James III (born September 7, 1945 – died August 1, 2017) was a very important leader in the United States Air Force. He reached the rank of lieutenant general. From 2002 to 2006, he was the director of the Air National Guard. This is a part of the U.S. Air Force that includes citizen airmen who serve both their state and the country.
Life Story
Daniel James III was born in Tuskegee, Alabama, in 1945. His father was General Daniel "Chappie" James Jr., who was also a famous Air Force general.
Daniel James III studied psychology at the University of Arizona. He also went to special Air Force schools to learn more about leadership and national security.
He was a pilot and flew many missions during the Vietnam War. He spent 500 hours flying in combat. For his bravery, he earned two Distinguished Flying Crosses. These awards are given for heroic actions while flying.
A big achievement for Daniel James III was becoming the first African American to lead the Air National Guard. He retired from the Air Force in June 2006 after a long and successful career.
He passed away on August 1, 2017, due to heart problems. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery, a special place where many American heroes are laid to rest.
Important Awards
Daniel James III received many awards for his service. Some of his most important ones include:
- Air Force Distinguished Service Medal: This is a very high award for excellent service.
- Legion of Merit: Given for outstanding service and achievements.
- Distinguished Flying Cross: Awarded for heroism or extraordinary achievement while flying.
- Air Medal: Given for single acts of merit or sustained meritorious service while participating in aerial flight.
- Meritorious Service Medal: Awarded for outstanding non-combat meritorious achievement or service.
He also received other special honors:
- Order of the Sword: A special honor given by enlisted members to officers they admire.
- Texas Military Hall of Honor: He was recognized for his contributions to the Texas Military.
His Military Journey
Daniel James III had many different jobs and assignments during his time in the Air Force. He started his journey by learning to fly.
- He trained to be a pilot in Arizona.
- He served as a forward air controller in Vietnam. This meant he helped guide other planes during combat.
- He became an instructor pilot, teaching others how to fly.
- He worked in staff roles at the Air Force Headquarters in Washington, D.C.
- He was an "Aggressor" pilot, which means he flew against other pilots in training to help them practice.
- He held many leadership roles in the Texas Air National Guard, including squadron commander and group commander.
- His final role was as the Director of the Air National Guard for the entire United States.
Images for kids
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Command Pilot Wings, showing he was a highly skilled pilot.
