CW4 James Thomas Strickland, Sr.

CW4 James Thomas Strickland Sr., 91, One of the most loved and patriotic men left us Sunday morning to be with his parents, 11 sisters and brothers and his fellow WWII Veterans. He leaves behind his loving and devoted wife, of 72 years, Gladys Powell Strickland, 3 children, Barbara Davis, Jimmy Strickland (Julie), Gayle Smith (Ralph), along with 6 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren, that all loved and admired their PaPa. Also, many nieces and nephews that were very special to him and he so enjoyed spending time with. J.T., as he was known by all, was born in Clarendon, NC, and educated in the Columbus County School System. He was class president of the first class to graduate from Williams Township High School. For 3 summers while attending high school, he was a supervisor with the US Gov. Agricultural Admin. After graduating High School and prior to WWII, he moved to Wilmington and started to work with the Atlantic Coastline RR. In Oct, 1942, he enlisted with the US Army, 13TH Jungle Air Corps where he served in New Caledonia, Guadalcanal, Dutch East Indies, and the Philippine Islands. He was released from active duty at Fort Bragg in December 1945 and he became a member of the NC National Guard where he remained until he concluded his 40 plus years of military service. His numerous military awards included many medals: the American Campaign, Asiatic Pacific Campaign with 2 battle stars, WWII Victory, Philippine Liberation Ribbon, NC National Guard Service Award, plus many more. His WWII story and picture are proudly displayed in the Wardroom on the USS NC in Wilmington. Funeral services will be held at 2pm Thursday, May 14, 2015 at Andrews Market Street Chapel. Entombment will be at Oleander Memorial Garden Mausoleum. The family will receive friends 1 hour prior to the service beginning at 1pm. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to a charity of one's choice.