The history of the U.S. military isn’t quite complete without such stalwarts as Air Force Gen. Daniel “Chappie” James Jr. and retired Col. John “JB” Stone. Their contribution did not only break racial barriers but reset new standards in tactical excellence and leadership.
General Daniel “Chappie” James Jr.: A Life of Perseverance and Patriotism
Born on February 11, 1920, in Pensacola, Florida, Daniel James Jr. rose from very modest beginnings to become the first Black four-star general in any branch of the U.S. military. Brought up in extreme poverty, amidst racism and segregation, James would overcome, turning into a skillful tactician and a revered leader. His speeches on patriotism and the American way reflected his deep commitment to the nation.
The journey of James started with schooling from his mother, who, disgusted with the inequity and substandard quality of the local segregated public school, opened her school. This early education inducted into him the never-quit attitude. As a young boy, James saw aircraft flying from Pensacola Naval Air Station and knew right then he wanted to fly. He had been dismissed from Tuskegee Institute for some youthful indiscretions but managed to gain his civilian pilot certification in 1942 and later his bachelor’s degree from Tuskegee in 1969.
James had some pretty high spots in his military career. He was first a civilian instructor pilot until he joined the Army Air Corps in 1943. He did not see combat during World War II but did instruct cadets and then flew 101 combat missions during the Korean War. At the time of the Vietnam War, he had risen to colonel and played a major role in Operation Bolo, a mission in which seven enemy MiG-21 aircraft were destroyed without U.S. losses.
Promoted to four-star general on September 1, 1975, James became commander in chief of North American Aerospace Defense Command. His leadership and other necessary diplomatic skills would be sorely called for in the U.S. withdrawal from Wheelus Air Base in Libya after Muammar Gadhafi’s coup. James retired in 1978 and shortly after passed away, leaving a legacy of resilience and dedication.
Col. John “JB” Stone: A Mastermind of Tactical Innovation
It was a big day at Nellis Air Force Base on 28 July 2022 as Ret. Col. John “JB” Stone visited the base. At 85, Stone came to present the Capt. John Stone award for ‘Outstanding Mission Commander’ to Capt. Paul “Bullet” Young of the 336th Fighter Squadron. This award, given since 2014, is presented to outstanding Blue Force pilots and their contributions to Red Flag-Nellis exercises.
More importantly, Stone’s legacy was connected to Operation Bolo, a plan for which, in 1966, he devastated half of the North Vietnamese MiG-21 fighter force. Unhappy with the tactics being repeatedly used, Stone devised a scheme through which an F-105 Thunderchief bombing formation would be imitated, allowing Col. Robin Olds to lead a flight of F-4 Phantom IIs in a surprise attack. It was an innovative approach that altered enemy perception and resulted in a major victory.
The Capt. John Stone’s award represents the importance of strategic planning and adaptability in modern warfare. His presence at Nellis AFB nailed the coffin: his contributions to military tactics and training greatly affected their very flesh and blood.
A Legacy of Excellence Shared
Gen. Daniel “Chappie” James Jr. and Col. John “JB” Stone epitomize the very finest traditions of military service. Their stories of overcoming adversity, pioneering new tactics, and leading with integrity continue to inspire future generations of service members. In their legacies, we celebrate something timeless in our lives: the values of perseverance, innovation, and patriotism that define the U.S. military.