Celebrating a Life of Service in Coronado

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Community event honoring local heroes and service in Coronado.

News Summary

Jim Strickland, a veteran and community leader, has dedicated his life to serving others in Coronado, California. From his military service as a B-52 radar navigator to his active role in local organizations, Strickland embodies commitment and community spirit. He continues to inspire others through his involvement in educational and planning initiatives, leaving a significant legacy of service and dedication. His story highlights the importance of community and family as pillars of a fulfilled life.

Celebrating a Life of Service in Coronado

Coronado, California, is home to an incredible story of service, dedication, and community involvement centered around the life of Jim Strickland. Born in 1938 in Pembroke, Georgia, Strickland’s journey has been shaped by his upbringing, military service, and unwavering commitment to his community.

A Humble Beginning

Growing up as the son of a Shell Oil employee, Strickland faced a unique childhood. His family’s work took them to Venezuela for several years before they returned to their roots in Georgia. After completing his high school education, Strickland pursued further studies at Georgia Southern University. His future was influenced heavily when the clutches of a draft notice arrived, nudging him toward a decision that would ultimately change his life—joining the military.

The Skies Beckon

Initially, Strickland thought about joining the Navy. However, a slow-moving recruiter made him switch his focus to the Air Force. This turned out to be a fortuitous choice. His first operational assignment would be at the 306th Bomb Wing at McCoy Air Force Base in Florida, where he served as a B-52 radar navigator. Over the course of his military career, he flew an astounding 237 “Arc Light” combat missions across deployment locations including Okinawa, Thailand, and Guam. In total, he racked up over 2,000 combat hours.

Remarkable Combat Contributions

During the Battle of Khe Sanh, Strickland played a pivotal role in providing the first-ever close-in bombing support for U.S. forces using the B-52, all while releasing bombs from an impressive altitude of 30,000 feet. His tenure with the Air Force also included completing Cold War nuclear alert missions and ending his military journey on the staff of the Pacific Air Forces in 1992. For his gallant service, he was honored with the Legion of Merit and the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Life After the Uniform

After his commendable military service, Strickland and his wife Sandy, whom he met while working at Convair General Dynamics, spent five delightful years soaking in the sun and enjoying recreational activities such as golf and scuba diving in Hawaii. Their love story, which began in Coronado where they married in 1979, blossomed alongside Strickland’s dedication to his career, which included roles in contract management with the GE Jet Engine Facility and as Director of Contract Management at Headquarters Air Force Systems Command.

A Community Champion

Returning to Coronado, Strickland did not slow down. He stepped into numerous roles that showcased his dedication to the community. He has been an active board member of the Coronado Historical Association and the MOAA Silver Strand Chapter. His time volunteering as a tutor with the Silver Strand Elementary Reading Program is a testament to his passion for education and youth development. He even chaired the City Planning Commission, influencing the future of his beloved Coronado.

Legacy of Family and Community

Strickland’s family life is as rich as his professional one. He is proud to be the father of five children and the grandfather of seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. With the support of his family by his side, Strickland has taken the lead in important community initiatives, including the 2003 and 2008 Residential Standards Improvement Program committees, revising the zoning regulations that will shape the future of Coronado.

A Life Well-Lived

Jim Strickland continues to reside in Coronado, California, leaving a legacy of service, sacrifice, and commitment to making his community a better place for all. His life is a true example of how one person’s dedication can impact many, inspiring others to follow in his footsteps of service and community involvement.