General Daniel James Jr. was the first four-star general of the United States Air Force. Although he nearly didn’t get the opportunity to serve his country, General James flew in a pair of wars and won several decorations before his historic moment.
James was born February 11, 1920 in Pensacola, Fla. After graduating high school, James entered Tuskegee Institute (now University) and graduated just as World War II was unfolding. James, who was nicknamed “Chappie,” became interested in flying while in college.
He joined the federal government’s Civilian Pilot Training Program and became an instructor for the all-Black 99th Pursuit Squadron, better known as the Tuskegee Airmen. James dealt with racism and other barriers as he proudly fought to have his trained fighter pilots included in the military ranks. Despite already proving that he had what it took to be an Air Force pilot, James would have to wait for his time in the skies.
Although he did not fly missions in World War II, his career as a combat pilot took off during the Korean War. James flew over 100 missions, earning the Distinguished Service Medal. James also flew around 75 missions during the Vietnam War.
In 1970, James was named the assistant deputy secretary of defense in the public affairs division. In 1975, James achieved his four-star general rank and was named the commander of the NORAD air defense program in Colorado.
James retired in 1978. Just weeks after leaving the military, he died at age 58. General James’ son, retired Lieutenant General Daniel James III, followed his father’s footsteps and made history as well. The younger James was the first African-American director of the Air National Guard, serving in the post from 2002 to 2006.
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