Jimmy Stewart.

4/4/07

James L. Stewart graduated from Rockport High School in 1949. This was in the time frame of the Korean War and the draft was still in effect. Soon after James "Jim" Stewart graduated, his brother Glen received his greeting from Uncle Sam stating that his country needed him. Less than a month later, Jim received the same type of letter from the same Uncle. The two brothers, not wanting to serve in the Army, enlisted in the Navy and were told that they could stay together and were given consecutive serial numbers. They completed "Boot" camp at Camp Pendleton in San Diego, California, and reported to a base in Norfolk VA. They were then assigned to an ammo ship, the USS Mazama, and were given a destination in Japan. Jim was assigned to the Radar Room and that was also his battle station. While in route the ship developed problems and was sent back to San Diego. Glen became ill and was sent home and Jim was then sent back to Norfolk. While on duty in Norfolk, Jim fell some 35 feet to the ground, injuring his foot and ankle. The injury was severe and bad enough for a medical discharge. After a healing process, it was determined that Jim's foot condition would not allow him to serve in the Navy and he was sent back home.

It was now back to Rockport for Jim. Glen had been discharged a few months earlier and had started working with his other brother, Duane "Buck" Stewart, as a construction electrician. Jim thought that his two brothers were doing well as construction electricians and decided to join them in the electrician trade. The three brothers continued this line of work for about fifteen years. They worked in many states and on many construction sites. During this time frame Jim married his schoolmate, Hilma Lou Ashton. Glen had married his high school classmate a few years earlier.

In 1964 Jim acquired a job with Peabody Coal Company, Sinclair Mines. This mine had signed a long-term contract to furnish coal for the new TVA plant. The mines closed in 1986 and Jim retired.

Jim and Hilma Lou live on U.S. Hwy62 West, Rockport, Kentucky. Thanks Jimmy, for your service to our country.

Thanks for looking.
See you.......
jrd