James spent over 15 years in Army Special Operations, both enlisted and as a commissioned officer, and was medically retired out of the 75th Ranger Regiment in July 2023 after a 21 year career in the military.

James grew up in Houston, Texas and enjoyed hunting, fishing, and playing sports while also enjoying a short stint as a drummer in a punk band. He enlisted into the Army July 2002 as an infantryman and spent 13 years enlisted, 11 of which was spent in special operations as a member of the 75th Ranger Regiment. During his enlisted time, James completed 8 combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan; including a nighttime parachute assault during the Iraq invasion in 2003.

In 2015, James commissioned as a Second Lieutenant through ROTC at Columbus State University. During his commissioned career he was assigned to 3rd Special Forces Group and Army Logistics University en route to returning to the 75th Ranger Regiment in 2021 before being medically retired.

James has numerous awards and decorations including three Meritorious Service Medals and a Joint Service Commendation Medal with “V” device for his valorous actions in combat in Afghanistan. He is a graduate of the Army Ranger School and twice successfully completed the 75th Ranger Regiment Assessment and Selection Program.

James visited Talons Reach as a program participant in February 2023 and credits the program as a major step forward in his healing journey. We are honored to have him on our team!