Steve L. James describes himself as a “military brat.” His father was in the Army Air Corps. James himself was in the Army almost 15 years, going on active duty in July 1969 and getting temporarily discharged in June 1984. He was permanently discharged in August 1985. The line of military service in the James family continues today through Steve’s son, Jerry C., a sergeant first class (E-7), who has been stationed in Korea and has seen two tours in Iraq.

“I’m very proud of him,” James said of his son. (James also has two daughters, Jo-Anne and Stefanie, both of whom live in Massachusetts.)

Of his own military career, Steve James was stationed in Korea at Camp Casey for 13 months with the 2nd Division. He also did a three-year tour in Naples, Italy, with the U.S. Army Element, which was part of NATO.

“I was in administration at that time. I was assigned to the 10th Special Forces Airborne Group in that administrative role. I was there to support the personnel,” said James, who lives in the Gulf Shores area. James was a member of Post 44 in Gulf Shores but for the past five years has been a member of Post 99.

James has served as senior commander at Post 99 for almost a year. He describes his job description as taking care of all the duties the post commander can’t and initiating programs the post commander stipulates. James also serves on Post 99’s executive committee.

What James appreciates most about being a member of American Legion Post 99 is the camaraderie with fellow veterans and working with veterans in the Foley area. Post 99 works with the community, according to James.

“If you’re a veteran — if you’re not a war veteran and can’t join the VFW —you can probably join the American Legion. That’s how you find out what Congress is doing and voice your opinion,” James said.

The American Legion was chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919 as a patriotic veterans organization dedicated to mutual helpfulness. It is the nation’s largest veteran’s service organization, committed to mentoring and sponsorship of youth programs in communities, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting a strong national security, and continued devotion to fellow service members and veterans.

Area veterans interested in joining Post 99 may call 251-943-3114.