Col. James G. Sutton USAF, Ret.

Col. Sutton was the former Chief of Staff, Aerospace Systems Division, Air Force Systems Command, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. He was appointed to the Army Air Corps in 1944 and entered the USAF as it was being initially formed in 1946.

He was the honored recipient of the Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster, Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with four oak leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster and Purple Heart among other commendations. These were awarded for his service in World War II as a member of the 388th Bombardment Group based in Knettishall, England, where he flew 33 missions over Europe in B-17’s, and for his service in the Korean War.

In both his military and personal life, he conducted himself with impeccable dignity and manner, and epitomized extraordinary courage, integrity, generosity, loyalty and devotion to friends, family and Country. Always fun loving, he had a special ability to lift people up and provide encouragement, support and an abiding sense of optimism.

Jim loved telling engaging, often complex stories that would usually end with a laugh and smiles all around. He had a keen and learned aesthetic sense and a deep appreciation of art, classical music, culture and history. He graduated from Brooklyn College in 1941 where he received his Bachelor of Arts degree in French. His studies at New York University were interrupted by the war, but he eventually received a Master’s degree in International Affairs from George Washington University in 1964.

In times of need, Jimmy was always there; one need never ask -he would always have your back. He had an uncanny ability to quickly relate to people, genuinely make them feel unique and brighten their day. In his work, he had an acknowledged ability to spot and nurture talent and bring out the best in people. He forged bonds of friendship that were long lasting and as a consequence he was the recipient of so much love.

A member of the “Greatest Generation”, he was one of the very last survivors of the “Mighty Eighth.” He leaves his nephews, grandnephews, grandniece, cousins and his devoted friends who will miss him dearly.

There will never be another like him.