Rodney A. James was born in Jersey City, NJ, on March 30, 1946, to Mr. and Mrs. Ralph James. In 1952, the family moved to Plainfield, NJ, where he graduated from Plainfield High School in 1964. His home of record is Plainfield, NJ. Interested in singing and athletics, Rodney was a member of the varsity track and cross country teams and the chorus for three years. He also joined the Debate team. For summer jobs, Rodney worked for Tepper’s and the Union County Park Commission.

James enlisted in the US Marine Corps in September 1964 and completed boot camp at Parris Island, SC, as part of Platoon 387 from September 16 to November 27, 1964. He attained the rank of Private (PVT).

At 22 years of age, James was killed in action in the Quang Tri Province in the Republic of Vietnam on July 22, 1966. Just three weeks before, James wrote home to his mother of his expected visit home in August.

For his superior service in Vietnam, James received seven medals, including the National Defense Service Medal and the Purple Heart Medal.

He was buried at the Calvary Baptist Church in Plainfield and was survived by his parents, a paternal grandmother, and a brother, Gregory.

Sources: Plainfield Veterans Memorial Committee and NJVVMF.
12/17/2024