James J. Lindsay facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
James J. Lindsay
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Lindsay in 1986
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| Birth name | James Joseph Lindsay |
| Born | October 10, 1932 Portage, Wisconsin, U.S. |
| Died | August 5, 2023 (aged 90) Vass, North Carolina, U.S. |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Service/ |
 United States Army |
| Years of service | 1952–1990 |
| Rank | General |
| Commands held | 2nd Battalion, 60th Infantry Regiment U.S. Special Operations Command XVIII Airborne Corps 82nd Airborne Division |
| Battles/wars | Vietnam War |
| Awards | Distinguished Service Cross Distinguished Service Medal Silver Star (4) |
James Joseph Lindsay (October 10, 1932 – August 5, 2023) was a very important United States Army general. He was the first person to lead the United States Special Operations Command, a special group of soldiers who handle tough missions.
Contents
General James Lindsay's Army Journey
James Lindsay started his Army career in 1952. He became an officer in May 1953. An officer is a leader in the military. He studied at many military schools. He also learned German and Russian languages. He earned a college degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. He also got a master's degree from George Washington University.
Leading Soldiers in Peace and War
Lindsay led many different groups of soldiers. He led them both during peacetime and in war. His first jobs were with the 82nd Airborne Division. This is a famous group of paratroopers. He also worked with the 7th Special Forces Group. This group is known for special operations.
During the Vietnam War, he helped train Vietnamese soldiers. He also led a group called the 2nd Battalion, 60th Infantry Regiment. He was also a top planner for the 9th Infantry Division.
Becoming a General
As a general, Lindsay led several important Army groups. He commanded the 82nd Airborne Division. He also led the XVIII Airborne Corps. This is a large group of soldiers ready for quick action.
His biggest role was being the first leader of the United States Special Operations Command. This command oversees the Army's special forces. General Lindsay retired from the Army on July 1, 1990.
Life After the Army
After retiring, General Lindsay stayed busy. In 1990, he helped create the Airborne and Special Operations Museum Foundation. This museum teaches people about airborne and special operations soldiers.
He also helped train Army leaders from 1990 to 2009. He was honored in the United States Army Ranger Hall of Fame. He also received the Doughboy Award in 1996. This award honors infantry soldiers. In 1998, he received the Bull Simons Award. This award is for special operations leaders.
Family Life and Passing
James Lindsay and his wife, Gerry, lived in Vass, North Carolina. They had four children: Steven, Michael, Kevin, and Barbara. James J. Lindsay passed away on August 5, 2023. He was 90 years old.
Special Awards and Honors
General Lindsay received many awards for his bravery and service.
Distinguished Service Cross
The Distinguished Service Cross is a very high award. It is given for extreme bravery in combat. General Lindsay earned this award during the Vietnam War. He showed great courage from May 31 to June 4, 1968.
Other Important Awards
General Lindsay's other awards include:
- Distinguished Service Medal
- Silver Star (four times)
- Legion of Merit
- Bronze Star (with "V" device for valor)
- Meritorious Service Medal
- Air Medal
- Combat Infantryman Badge
- Master Parachutist Badge
- Ranger Tab
Images for kids
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The Distinguished Service Cross medal.
