James A. Wall: A Family of Coasties that are “Semper Paratus” … Always Ready

By Bob Pomorski, Honor Flight Chicago Veteran Interviews Volunteer

Jim Wall’s career in the US Coast Guard spanned over 40 years and three wars – Korean, Vietnam, and the Gulf Wars.  Throughout his career, Jim took to heart the motto of the US Coast Guard, “Semper Paratus” which by definition means “always ready.” 

The Wall family were originally dairy farmers in the Green Bay, Wisconsin area until Jim’s father found decent work in Chicago.  With just a 6^th grade education, Jim’s father worked very hard and ultimately became a superintendent of the Chicago Housing Authority. Jim grew up as the only boy in a family with three sisters.  With his father working hard to support the family, Jim became somewhat of a loner.  He attended Catholic grade school and then on to St. Rita High School, where he is still an active alum today.  

When Jim was 19, his best friend quit high school and joined the Navy.  Jim liked that idea and tried to enlist at the Navy recruiting office.  The recruitment officer told him there was a long waiting list for the Navy, and encouraged him to look into the US Coast Guard.  After researching his options, the US Coast Guard was a good option. Within 10 days of signing up for an eight-year stint, getting tested, and taking the physical exam, Jim was on his way.

 The US Coast Guard has a long and prestigious history.  It was created by Congress in 1790 at the request of Alexander Hamilton.  It is the oldest continuous seagoing service of the United States.  The Coast Guard carries out three basic roles: maritime safety, security, and stewardship. After his enlistment, Jim was sent to Cape May, New Jersey which was a receiving center for US Coast Guard recruits.  He spent 13 weeks there going through the US Coast Guard’s version of Basic Training.  From there, he was assigned to the Great Lakes 9^th Division and sent to Buffalo, NY.  After three months in Buffalo, Jim was transferred to Niagara, NY, where he spent the next 3 years.

After completing four years of active service, Jim spent his remaining four years as a member of the Coast Guard Reserve.  During this time, he was in the North Atlantic working side by side with full-time Coast Guard Guardsmen. He would be away at sea for 28 days at a time, then get three weeks leave back home, and then back at sea again.  The team would perform search and rescue missions and be on weather patrol.  Jim was also a “wickie.”  This is an old term for Lighthouse Keepers who had to trim the wicks of the oil lamps that were used back in the day.  

Because he loved the US Coast Guard so much, Jim dedicated the next thirty-two years to the Reserves until his mandatory retirement at age 60 as a Senior Chief Bosun.  Jim performed many duties in the Coast Guard over the years, including teaching boating safety.  He received numerous medals and commendations including a Presidential Unit Citation, National Defense Service Medal, and a Marksmanship Medal.      

 At age 25, Jim found the love of his life, Rita, and they got married.  Jim said that he was able to concentrate while at sea because he knew Rita was in charge back home.  If the kids got hurt, Rita would wait for Jim to get back home before alerting him.  It takes a very special woman to be married to a “Coastie.”  Jim and Rita have been married for over 59 years.  

Over the years, while still in the Reserves and after retiring, Jim worked for several steamship companies that provided cargo to aide the military during times of war and in peacetime.  He enjoyed the business aspects of the job, and of course, its relationship to the sea.  

 Jim and Rita remained on the south side of Chicago and in the southwest suburbs, proudly raising three children. One of his sons followed in his footsteps, joining the US Coast Guard.  Jim fondly speaks of his son’s tenure in the US Coast Guard and how he achieved an even higher rank than his dad.

Because of his allegiance to the military, Jim has been active in supporting the American Legion Post #13 over the years, including a role as Post Commander.  Today, he is an avid painter, and enjoys spending time with his ten grandchildren.  He still meets with his old high school buddies from St. Rita; and they have fun reminiscing about the good old days.              

Jim your dedication, loyalty, and readiness, was second to none.  For that, we thank you for your service to your country. Enjoy your much-deserved Honor Flight trip.