Daniel James Jr.

Daniel James Jr.
Nickname(s)"Chappie"
Born(1920-02-11)February 11, 1920[1]
Pensacola, Florida[1]
DiedFebruary 25, 1978(1978-02-25) (aged 58)[1]
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Buried
AllegianceUnited States
Service / branchUnited States Army (1943–47)
United States Air Force (1947–78)
Years of service1943–1978
RankGeneral
CommandsNorth American Aerospace Defense Command
Military Airlift Command
7272nd Flying Training Wing
33rd Tactical Fighter Wing
8th Tactical Fighter Wing
92d Tactical Fighter Squadron
437th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron
Battles / wars
AwardsDefense Distinguished Service Medal
Air Force Distinguished Service Medal (2)
Legion of Merit (2)
Distinguished Flying Cross (3)
Meritorious Service Medal
Air Medal (14)
RelationsLieutenant General Daniel James III (son)

Daniel "Chappie" James Jr. (February 11, 1920 – February 25, 1978) was a fighter pilot in the United States Air Force who, in 1975, became the first African American to reach the rank of four-star general in the United States Armed Forces. Three years later, James was forced to retire prematurely due to heart issues, just weeks before he died of a heart attack.

James attended the famous Tuskegee Institute and instructed African American pilots during World War II. He flew combat missions during the Korean War and Vietnam War, and received the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, two Air Force Distinguished Service Medals, two Legions of Merit, three Distinguished Flying Crosses, a Meritorious Service Medal, and fourteen Air Medals.

  1. ^ a b c "Personal Fact Sheet, Daniel "Chappie" James". Air Force Historical Research Agency. August 25, 1975. pp. 159–161.