Military
Drafted in 1970, Jim spent three years in the U.S. Army, honorably discharged as a 1st Lieutenant in the Transportation Corp. when the Vietnam War ended. His experience had a drastic impact on his artwork. Always interested in U.S. history, he wanted to pay homage to those who serve, out of respect and admiration for the people who put their lives on the line for the country. The images in his military paintings are portraits, stories, and recollections of battle and the people who struggled for their cause. He paints tales not only of Vietnam but historical figures and battles during the formation of the U.S. including Native Americans and U.S. soldiers.
Near to Jim's heart is his continued documentation of the art and stories of U.S. military Veterans. In 2013, Jim curated War on Truth – A Vietnam Saga, an exhibition of artwork made by Vietnam Veterans, at the Arizona Military Museum and produced a video of the same title that is available on YouTube. In 2014, Jim became the Arts and Culture Editor for Arizona Veterans Magazine. Jim dedicates himself to helping Veterans and serves as the 1st VP for the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 432.
