General Michael G. James
ROCKLAND, MAINE – Brigadier General Michael G. James, U.S.A.F. Retired, 73, a great patriot, leader and beloved father, formerly of New Cumberland, PA, died at his home, Wednesday, December 22, 2010, after an extended illness.
Born in Philadelphia, PA, July 22, 1937, he was the son of the late Lewis L. and Elizabeth Hitchner James. Growing up in Pitman, NJ, he was a graduate of Pitman High School and Rutgers University.
From 1963 to 1969, Mr. James served as a Navigator with the Strategic Air Command. After leaving the Air Force and while working as a marketing representative for IBM, in 1971 he re-enlisted with the Pennsylvania Air National Guard, serving in the 193rd Special Operations Squadron in Harrisburg, PA. After retiring from IBM, he returned to full time military duty and advanced to the rank of Colonel while serving as the State Director of Operations for the PA Air National Guard. During his military career, Mr. James served in numerous campaigns on behalf of his country, including the Vietnam Conflict, Desert Storm and Operation Desert Shield. Upon his discharge in 1996, he was awarded the rank of Brigadier General.
Mr. James is survived by his son Thomas M. James of Arlington, VA; two step-sons, Michael J. Koscso of Arlington, VA, Robert P. Koscso and his wife Suzanne of Cary, NC; two sisters Patricia Mark and her husband Robert of Nesconset, NY, Judith Wanner and her husband Gordon of Gettysburg, PA, five grandchildren as well as several nieces and nephews.
A graveside service with Military Honors will be held at Seaview Cemetery, Rockport, Maine in the spring.
Arrangements are in the care of Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home, 110 Limerock Street, Rockland.