25th Veteran of the Quarter, Michael James, US Army
December 10, 2016
I have known Sergeant Michael James for over two years. I first met him at the 2014 Disabled American Veterans State Convention in Jefferson City, Missouri.
Mike joined the Missouri National Guard in January 2006. During his service with the Guard, Mike responded to numerous requests for emergency assistance such as flood response. Mike then served in the United States ARMY for three tours in Afghanistan beginning in 2007, 2009, and 2010 as a Military Policeman, holding the positions of Team Leader and Supply NCO. Besides police duties, he worked with village reconstruction teams, prison guard, and VIP protection details.
After 8 years of service, Mike separated from the US ARMY in January of 2014. Mr. James received many medals and accommodations during his years of service, including: Unit Citation, Army Commendation, Army Achievement, Afghanistan 2 Leafs, Good Conduct, NATO Ribbon, Joint Service Commendation, Non Commission Officer, Army Armed Force Reserve, Over Seas, Over Seas Training, Army Service, National Defense, and Global War on Terrorism.
Because of Mike’s passion for his fellow veterans, after leaving the Army, he choose to become a State of Missouri DAV “Department Service Officer” at the Columbia VA Hospital. Through hard work and dedication, Mike quickly worked his way up to DAV Office Supervisor at the Hospital. Luckily for Branson, he relocated here when a desperate need arose. Presently, he is helping upwards of 150 veterans per month with service connected disability claims, employment, temporary housing for homeless veterans, widow pensions, continuing education opportunities, burial rites, and any other help that is needed. There is no cost to the veterans.
Mike serves as the Commander of Veteran City Chapter 68 of the Disabled American Veterans here in Branson. He also is a member of the DAV, VFW, American Legion, and CVMA. Mike is engaged to Mary Ann and has four children – Cody, Kaitlyn, Blake, Justine, and a grandson, Liam.
Branson is very lucky to have the best Service Officer in the state. To nominate a local Veteran for the Branson Bank Veteran of the Quarter, please visit our website: www.bransonbank.com or stop by any of our Branson Bank location to pick up a Nomination Form. Veterans are chosen by a panel of their peers.
THE PROUD. THE STRONG. THE LOYAL. OUR VETERANS!