James C. Binnicker facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James C. Binnicker
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Binnicker c. 1986
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| Born | July 23, 1938 Orangeburg, South Carolina, US |
| Died | March 21, 2015 (aged 76) Calhoun, Georgia, US |
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| Service/ |
United States Air Force |
| Years of service | 1957–1990 |
| Rank | Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force |
| Battles/wars | Vietnam War |
| Awards | Air Force Distinguished Service Medal Legion of Merit Bronze Star Medal Meritorious Service Medal (4) Joint Service Commendation Medal Air Force Commendation Medal (2) |
| Other work | CEO Air Force Enlisted Village |
James C. Binnicker (born July 23, 1938 – died March 21, 2015) was a very important leader in the United States Air Force. He held the highest position an enlisted person can reach, serving as the 9th Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force from 1986 to 1990.
Early Life and School
James Binnicker was born on July 23, 1938, in a town called Orangeburg, South Carolina. He grew up there and finished high school at Aiken High School in 1956.
Military Adventures
Binnicker joined the United States Air Force in August 1957. His first job was at Altus Air Force Base in Oklahoma. He worked as a life support specialist, which means he made sure pilots and aircrew had the right gear to stay safe, like oxygen masks and parachutes.
During his time in the Air Force, he traveled a lot! He worked in many different places, including Hawaii, North Dakota, Georgia, North Carolina, Vietnam, and Taiwan. He became a Senior Enlisted Advisor for several important Air Force commands. This role meant he was a top advisor, helping leaders understand the needs and concerns of all the enlisted airmen.
In 1985, Binnicker was chosen for a special program that allowed him to serve for 33 years. This showed how much the Air Force valued his experience.
From July 1, 1986, to July 1990, James Binnicker served as the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force. This is a huge honor, as he was the most senior enlisted person in the entire Air Force. He represented all enlisted airmen and advised the Air Force's top leaders.
Life After the Air Force
After retiring from the Air Force, Binnicker continued to help military families. In March 2000, he became the president and CEO of the Air Force Enlisted Village (AFEV). This is a special charity in Shalimar, Florida, that provides homes for the wives and husbands of enlisted military members who have passed away.
Binnicker was also a member of the AFEV Board of Directors for many years, from 1992 until he passed away. He died in 2015 at the age of 76. He was buried at Arlington National Cemetery, a famous cemetery where many American heroes are laid to rest.
Awards and Honors
James C. Binnicker received many important awards for his service in the Air Force. Some of these include:
- The Air Force Distinguished Service Medal, which is given for outstanding service.
- The Legion of Merit, another high award for excellent service.
- The Bronze Star Medal, given for bravery or good service in a combat zone, like during the Vietnam War.
- The Meritorious Service Medal, which he received four times for his excellent work.
- The Joint Service Commendation Medal and the Air Force Commendation Medal, which he received twice, for his good conduct and achievements.
