Jim was born in Pittsburgh. He spent his early childhood and teen years living in Pennsylvania, Illinois, and New Jersey. In 1963, he received his Bachelor of Science Degree from St. Peters College (now University), a Jesuit college in Jersey City, New Jersey.
Soon after graduation and assignment to the United States Air Force Officer Training School at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, Jim was commissioned a Second Lieutenant fully anticipating only four years in uniform. Fortunately for him, and hopefully the Air Force as well, the four years became thirty years ending with his retirement in the grade of Colonel in 1993.
Jim’s military career included service in the Vietnam War, duty as a Missile Combat Crew Commander and Senior Instructor thereof, commander of a unit in Africa, headquarters staff positions in Conus, and other command and logistics-oriented assignments within the U.S. and Europe. While in the Service as a missile crew member, Jim attended the University of Wyoming receiving his Master of Business Administration degree. He was selected for Beta Gamma Sigma, the national honor society for students of business.
Upon retirement from the USAF, Jim and his wife Linda relocated to Arizona. Where, and without any earlier planning or intention, Jim got involved in local government. Over a period of about twelve years, he served on the Planning and Zoning Commission, as a City Councilman, and as Mayor. While in the latter position, the city was acclaimed an All American City, only one of ten in the nation in that particular year. The private side of America also received his attention as he owned and managed two businesses: a real estate brokerage, marketing both residential and commercial units, and a specialty foods company.
Just six years ago, Jim and Linda moved to Arkansas. It is in Arkansas that he decided to attempt authorship of a book on abortion and devoted his attention to the protection of the unborn. “To Protect Those Unable to Protect Themselves: Saving the Unborn” is the product of his determination and inspiration.
