More detail on this person: Col. James L.
Shanahan, retired USMC, passed away at home on
Sunday, Oct. 30, 2016. He was born and lived in
Vicksburg, Miss. He graduated from University of
Oklahoma via the NROTC program and was
commissioned as a second lieutenant in the USMC
where he had a very successful 28-year career. He
served in the Korean War as a ground officer. He
then became a naval aviator and flew jets, fixed
wings and helicopters. He served three tours in
Vietnam, graduated from Command and Staff
College and the Air War College. He then earned a
master's degree from Auburn University. He went on
to serve on the Joint Chief of Staff in the J-5
Division. He was the CO of MAG-26 and then the
commander of the Air Station at New River. He was
a decorated Marine earning a Distinguished Flying
Cross, two Legion of Merit Medals, Air Medals,
USN Commendation Medals, and Helicopter
Rescue awards. He then retired from the USMC, a
job he truly loved. After retiring, he worked for
USPA and IRA (First Command) and lived out his
life in Trophy Club. Survivors: His loving wife,
Anne, of 61 years; his daughters, Tara Shanahan of
Carlsbad, N.M., and Erin Shaulis (Jim) of Ashton,
Ill.; four grandchildren; and four
great-grandchildren. His son, Master Sgt. Frank J.
Shanahan (Kathy), retired USAF, preceded him in
death. Memorial service: A private memorial
service will be held at The Living Word Lutheran
Church.
Published in Star-Telegram on Nov. 20, 2016
This information was last updated 11/23/2016
Please send additions or corrections to: HQ@vhpa.org VHPA Headquarters
Return to the Helicopter Pilot DAT name list
Return to VHPA web site
Date posted on this site: 03/10/2024
Copyright © 1998 - 2024 Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Association