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James Newman Obituary
Newman's son, Jay, said he died Sunday at the University of North Carolina medical center in Chapel Hill of complications associated with lung cancer.
Newman was twice nominated for the Medal of Honor, the highest military award for valor. While he did not receive that medal, he did get a Distinguished Service Cross, the nation's second-highest award for combat valor, the Silver Star, four Distinguished Flying Crosses, the Bronze Star, Purple Heart and 23 Air Medals, among others.
In an interview years later, the Georgia native said he could "get the shakes" in recalling such incidents although at the time he had felt "no fear."
He first served in Vietnam in 1966, suffering a leg wound that nearly led to an amputation. Regaining flight status, he returned in 1970 as commander of C Troop, 2/17 Air Cavalry, 101st Airborne Division.
His first nomination for the Medal of Honor came in February 1971, when he rescued four U.S. crewmen from a crashed medevac helicopter on a mountaintop base in Laos where South Vietnamese Rangers were under heavy attack by North Vietnamese troops.
The same week, he rescued two other downed pilots by chopping down small trees with his main rotor blade, an act that astonished helicopter experts but earned Newman a Silver Star.
Five months later, Newman rescued two more pilots injured in a crash near the Laotian border, spotting a flash from their signal mirror and extracting the men with seconds to spare.
Richard Frazee, another former C Troop member, called Newman "a man of immeasurable courage who made us all feel invincible."
In 2000, Newman was inducted into the 101st Airborne Division's Hall of Fame at Fort Campbell, Ky.
Burial will be in Arlington National Cemetery, the family said.
Copyright © 2009 The Associated Press
87 Entries
David Larcomb
September 29, 2011
September 29, 2011 -- I flew with Jim many times. He was the Condor Commander, while I was the Banshee Commander. We shared many a cup of coffee. He was in one of the most dangerous areas in Vietnam. His air cavalry troop guarded the North Vietnam border from Laos to the South China Sea. My unit was responsible for the A Shau Valley and areas North. Rest well my fellow air cav comrade.
HANDSEL JOHNSON
January 25, 2011
I AM COMMAND SERGEANT MAJOR HANDSEL E. JOHNSON, JR. U.S.ARMY RETIRED. I'D LIKE TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY TO THE FAMILY OF MAJOR JAMES T. NEWMAN UPON LEARNING ABOUT HIS PASSING. I MET AND SERVED WITH JAMES FOR TWO YEARS, 1960-62 WHEN WE WERE PLATOON SERGEANTS IN C TROOP, 12TH CALVARY, 3RD ARMORED DIVISION, BUEDINGEN,GERMANY. JAMES WAS OUR SCOUT LEADER WHO KNEW THE GERMAN LANDSCAPE SO WELL THAT HE COULD LEAD US TO OUR BORDER POSITIONS IN WAYS NOT KNOWN BY OUR GERMAN COUNTERPARTS. HE WAS A REMARKABLE LEADER AND EVEN THEN I PREDICTED THAT HE WOULD ATTAIN GENERAL OFFICER RANK AT SOME POINT IN HIS MILITARY CAREER. I AM OFTEN REMINDED OF THE MORNING OF 2 SEPTEMBER 1960 WHEN JAMES CALMLY AND PROFESSIONALLY ASSISTED IN HELPING TO SAVE THE LIVES OF MANY OF OUR MEN WHO WERE BADLY WOUNDED IN A TRAINING ACCIDENT,WHICH ALSO KILLED TWENTY OF OUR MEN. I LEARND A LOT FROM JAMES ABOUT HOW TO BE A SOLDIER AND AM GLAD THAT HE BACAME A PART OF MY LIFE. MAY HE REST IN PEACE. [email protected]
Robert Palumbo
April 24, 2010
Major Newman's family: I heard of Major Newmans service just days ago and felt compelled to write. I lost my father several years ago, he proudly served in WWII, proudly helped Veterans through the VFW, and taught me to thank and appreciate all the men and women who serve and what they have done and continue to do for this country. With tears in my eyes I sit hear trying to send you comfort; because of the sacrifices of soldiers like Major Newman and my father, countless people had fathers and brothers and husbands. I was proud of my father as I am sure you are of yours. Thank You Major Newman, I share in his passing and celebrate the unimaginable gains from his life. Robert M Palumbo
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NEAL Lawhon (aka Ranger)
September 16, 2009
Sir, it was an honor and privilege to have served as a member of your crew.
With you at the stick and in command, my fate was in the hands of the best soldier, pilot, and commander in Viet Nam.
Major Newman, Sir, you were the bravest man I have ever known. I will miss you.
Jeb Stuart Lee
March 9, 2009
I never knew Jimmy although he was a cousin. He was 30, and most likely long gone from home, when I was born to Judy Newman's sister, Isabel. Jimmy sounds like a man I would like to have known. My condolences to his family.
Jake Carroll
February 23, 2009
I will miss you uncle jimmy, Thank you for your service to our country for our family, your friends, and everyone who will miss you and read about your heroic duties as a U.S. Soldier.
Cara Hobbs
February 17, 2009
I did not know you, but you are my leader.
I will follow, and I will listen.
I will be sure to pay attention
To the words written about you
And to the words written
For you.
It's because of people like you,
That I do what I do.
I can only pray to be
Half the leader
You were to so many.
Barbara Allred
February 6, 2009
God bless the family of Jimmy Newman. Thank you Jay for always being there for your father. Thank you Elaine for the love and compassion you have always shown for Jimmy. God bless Jimmy for his bravery to our Great Country. May God continue to Bless our military and their families. GOD IS GOOD! ALL THE TIME!
Wayne Baker
January 30, 2009
In an era where a person that can catch, throw or bounce a ball and be called a hero, I'm honored to have served with Major Newman, a true hero. I was with him when went in to rescue the medic near Khe Son and also when he rescued two gunpilots in the A Shau valley. I would have followed him to the gates of Hell.My prayers for his family
Dura H. Moore
January 23, 2009
Jimmy was always a special person to me. Among the many memories I have of him was the kindness and compassion he showed to his mother-in-law, Eva Rogers. He was always so eager to do her "repair work" when he was home on leave. Jimmy also had a lot of patience with me because I had a lot of question about the military when he was a young officer.
ronnie young
January 22, 2009
James T. Newman, a true American hero. He should be awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor, post-humously.
Ron Crotty
January 19, 2009
He will always be remembered as a great example of those who earned the distinction of "Above the Best".
DOUG MICHELS
January 19, 2009
GOD BLESS YOU JIM AND YOUR FAMILY!THANK YOU SIR FOR YOUR
BRAVERY! COMANCHERO 70-72
Morris Brady
January 18, 2009
The good live in our memory forever
Pat Stanley
January 17, 2009
I can only add, to the comments of my Condor Brothers, that have previously been written here. Such eloquent, and true words, to describe our loss. Jim Newman's true legacy, shall remain in the Hearts, Mind, & Soul of all who served under him. I think that such as an artist, with each stroke of the brush -Jim Newman added Color, Character, and Dignity to All of Us. From a member of the "Blues". GOD Bless You Jay & Your Family
January 17, 2009
May GOD hold him gently in the palm of HIS loving hands and guide James safely to Heaven. "Welcome Home" we'll see you at the Easterne Gate.
GOD bless,
Beti
Mike Feucht
January 16, 2009
As a crew chief for Jim Newman in Vietnam during 1970-1971, I know first hand how fearless he was. He was a very caring, understanding man that I had a great deal of respect for. If only there were more people in the country like him, this great nation would be even greater. He will be greatly missed.
Edith and SAMMY Baxley
January 16, 2009
our prayers go out to Jimmys family sisters and brother. He was certanly a hero and we are very proud of him.
Ryan Kane
January 16, 2009
To Maj. James Newman: for his selfless bravery, for astonishing the helicopter experts and for allowing my father who he rescued to enjoy raising his family. My prayers go out to his family and friends. I would have liked to have met and thanked him.
Bill Fallin
January 16, 2009
Although I never met Jimmy I wish I had. Bobbie often spoke of him and I believe meeting him would have been a great experience.
Bill Fallin,
Husband of Bobbie Jean Tarpley Fallin
g flint
January 15, 2009
your acts of selflessness will never be forgotten and have surely earned you a place of eternal honor...RIP brother
Ted Throckmorton
January 15, 2009
My thoughts prayers at this time are for his family and friends.
I have never been able to find suitable words to express my appreciation for gallant men of James stature.
So the words “Thank You” will have to do for now.
Appreciative American
January 15, 2009
Stand down....rest easy....well done sir
M. Jordan
January 15, 2009
To the Family: He was a man who served his country and became a hero. May he rest in peace for a job "Well Done." God Bless you in this time of your loss.
Joy Berends
January 15, 2009
What a great man! I'm very grateful for his service to our country, for the lives he saved and for giving such incredible examples of courage. May the Lord comfort you as you mourn his death.
Nancy
January 15, 2009
Thank you for serving our country so proudly. I'm certian the people you saved so many years ago have not forgotten your bravery either. Bless you and your Family. There's a special place in Heaven for you!
Jack Williams
January 15, 2009
God Bless this hero and his family.
Marie Mills
January 15, 2009
Thanks to you and your family for your unselfish service.
Mel Barkley
January 15, 2009
Thank you for your service and your sacrifice Officer Newman. May you rest in peace ~ you certainly deserve it.
ROSEANNE (CHARTIER)SCOTT
January 15, 2009
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.
Kathy Borrousch
January 15, 2009
You truly know the meaning of "Peace" now that you have entered the gates of Heaven, you are a Hero. Thank you for all that you did to make the world a better place for all.
Larry
January 15, 2009
James was' THE AUDIE MURPHY OF THE AIR ' God bless and keep you .
Chele
January 15, 2009
To the Family it is my prayer that your Faith in God will give you strength and your memories of your loved one will give you comfort. Weeping may endure for a night but joy cometh in the morning. Psalm 30:5.
Dian von Linsowe
January 15, 2009
Thank you for your service.
Rest in peace.
J. Otto
January 15, 2009
Thank you for your service to our country.
Tammy Krebs
January 15, 2009
Thank you for all you did for our country, and for the lives you saved. You truly are a hero. My sympathies and condolences to your family and friends. Rest in Peace.
Dave Greenbaum
January 15, 2009
Thank you and welcome home!
Thomas Hestand
January 15, 2009
As a former Army Helicopter Pilot myself (Kontum, VN 68-69) I share your feelings and morn your passing. I wish to extend my sympathies to your family and friends , and to let them know, I understand. May God bless.
Edwin McNeal
January 15, 2009
I was so sorry to hear of your loss. The thoughts of many are with you at this time of sorrow.A fellow veteran of the armed forces
Paul Corbosiero
January 15, 2009
To the family of James Newman -
I wish to express my deepest condolences. The lost of James is a lost to the entire country. His dedication to our country and the sacrifices he made on behave of it is a debt we as America's will owe to him long after his departure to a better place. Thank you James and God Bless.
Mo Dundon
January 15, 2009
God bless the family and friends of J. T . Newman . My thoughts and prayers are with you . I had 5 older brothers and was so terrified during the war . Only one went , but was sent to Germany . My Father was a veteran of The U. S . Army Air Corps . He was an Irish immigrant and spent 4 years repairing aircraft in India . Bless you all .
Alan Mitchell
January 15, 2009
To the Newman family,
Deepest respects in your loss, Mr. Newman was an awesomely heroic pilot, officer, and gentleman whom I would have been honored to serve with in Army aviation. I served in 87-01 crewing hooks, hueys, and hawks.
Mr. Newman and his legacy are truly tremendous examples of service and commitment to the troops. I will always remember him.
My thoughts and prayers for peace & comfort go with you.
Florence
January 15, 2009
To the family of this wonderful man, take heart that he is in the arms of our Lord. I served with the Army during that time, Stateside, typing out, "We regret to inform you." letters. My friends and I considered this OUR war, as we lost a number of friends in it. I especially admire those who stayed over there and gave their all, doing what obviously came naturally for them. Thank you, Sir!
Keith Arnold
January 15, 2009
Thank you, Hero!
Heather O'Shaughnessy
January 14, 2009
RIP Sir. Thank you for your service, your courage and for the lives you helped to save. To his family and friends my sincere condolences for you loss.
Richard Frazee
January 14, 2009
I'm still stunned by the realization that the world is without one of the great men of our generation. Maj. Jim Newman was a great leader, kind human being, and role model to so many. It is hard to not think of him and smile or remember the great things we all did under his leadership and example. It always amazed me at how so many people with so many different backgrounds and personalities could all find common agreement on the value of this one man.
Jim Newman was a man of immeasurable courage that made us all feel invincible and hard pressed to keep up. I was and am a better person from having known and served with him. Which of course he would either say something hilarious or self-deprecating about if he heard me say it.
I was proud to serve under his leadership, proud to serve with so many who were inspired to great deeds serving with him, and repeatedly astonished by his humility and humor.
He was one for the books and we will miss him.
Harry Simpson
January 14, 2009
Rest James, until you hear at dawn,
the low, clear reveille of God.
Thank you for your service to this nation.
stan newman
January 14, 2009
Jimmy, a mustang Army hero, from Welcome,Coweta County, georgia was and is his own man. Thank you double-cousin for your friendship. [email protected]
June Kennedy
January 14, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I will miss you.
Jeanna Goodpasture
January 14, 2009
My thoughts an prayers are with your family. Resst in Peace Jim. You will be greatly missed.
D. ZIMMERMAN
January 14, 2009
REST IN PEACE JAMED T. NEWMAN
January 14, 2009
For sure, he will be met at the gates by the Honor Guard in blue. Rest in peace old warrior.
Christine Gibson
January 14, 2009
James
Thank you for your deciated service to our country and the men who you saved. The folks who serve are always special. While tears may fall in the night joy will arrive in the morning. Good morning James, and God bless.
Evelyn
January 14, 2009
To the Family: My Husband and I would like to express our deepest sympathy for your loss. It is so difficult to lose someone we love. When I lost my dear father and brother, what got me through this difficult time was God's hope for our loved ones. Revelation 21: 3, 4 says that soon God will do away with pain, suffering and death. Then what is written at John 5: 28, 29 will take place. It says there is going to be a resurrection. During this time, we have the hope of seeing our loved ones again. I have often found comfort from reflecting on God's word and sincerely hope this thought will bring comfort and hope to your family.
jim rasicot
January 14, 2009
Sir: the word hero is tossed about freely today. However, You sir a truly an American hero. My deepest sympathies to your family and my most sincere thank you to you. You protected us all with you your life. Nothing else can be said. May you rest in eternal peace.
Virginia Hoge Williams
January 14, 2009
Thank You Mr. Newman, and what a Home Coming you are having with the Soldiers that lost their lives serving our GREAT Country. You are a true Hero. God Bless you have a Great time in Heaven. You will be in front in the great battle that is to come when God wins the final battle over evil. Look forward to shaking your hand one day soon..My father faught in WW11, MY 2 brothers fought in Viet Nam , alot of my friends, some did not live to come home, my husband also fought in Viet Nam.... Virginia
Billye J.Jackson
January 14, 2009
Rest in Peace Brouther. Thanks for all you did for us Grunts. Catch you at Gods Formation.Peace to the Family.
John Fogelquist
January 14, 2009
I have many fond memories of Jim, dating back 36 years. He introduced me to my passion of riding dirt bikes and go-carts as a youth, he taught me how to target shoot, how to fix the family furnace that always seemed to break down on the coldest day of the year, the list goes on...The Saturday evening trips to Baskin-Robbins for ice cream were always enjoyable. He was always good for a quick laugh with his sarcastic humor. I can still picture him sitting in his recliner drinking a coca-cola with peanuts in it, watching the Dallas Cowboys on TV. I never quite understood that favorite drink of his, but he sure enjoyed it. He made a lasting impression on my life. He was one man I can honestly say would always be there for you if you needed anything. He lit up when others came to him in need, excited at the chance to help someone, his heroism in the Army is a testimony to that. He will never be forgotten. I feel honored to have been a part of this American heroe's life. Jay, I have you and your family in my prayers.I know you are proud of your father, as you should be. May you find peace knowing that your father made such a difference in my life, in this world...May God bless you all.
Perry Fulmer
January 14, 2009
Thank you very much James for your bravery and courage. God created a very special person when you were born. HOO-RAH
Charlotte Ironmonger
January 14, 2009
You were "The Best of the Best" a true American Solider -- May your legacy live on forever! Thanks and God Bless You!
Sandy S
January 14, 2009
Thank you for your service to our country. You are indeed a HERO. May you rest in peace and your family find the strength to go on without you.
Cory Johnson
January 14, 2009
WOW. I now have a new name to add to my list of heros. I am humbled and forever grateful for your courage and service. Your life will be celebrated.
Gary Schuler
January 14, 2009
Jim,
You will be missed as a remembered troop commander and friend. I will never forget the inspiration and devotion you provided to me as a member of your unit. May God be with you
Gail Addison
January 14, 2009
Praise GOD for men like him! On behalf of all true Americans we thank you sir. And Jay , may God bless you and keep you. God bless America.
T B
January 14, 2009
Thank you for your service to our country. Men like you are the very best.
God Bless you and God Bless America!
Glenn Felts
January 14, 2009
A true HERO! They just don't make them like this any more. May God bless his soul and comfort your family during this difficult time.
Henryk Zaleski USN (Ret)
January 14, 2009
Rest in peace.
Wayne Slimplowski
January 14, 2009
Thank you for your service. You are a true American hero.
Kristi Grier
January 14, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
SHEILA SMITH
January 14, 2009
Rest in Peace James.
Brenda
January 13, 2009
The dedication of men and women such as James Newman make me proud to be an American. Thank you. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time.
Every night I pray with my children, asking God to bless all of those men and women out there in our world today that are working to keeping us safe.
Jim Burgess
January 13, 2009
Mr. Newman
You are indeed a man worthy of being called a man's man.
Cynthia Cobb
January 13, 2009
Be Still
Be still like the grass on a melancholy summer day
Be still like desert shrub.
Be calm and you will hear your loved one speak, in the stillness, in the calm, their love resounds.
If you are still this promise I make, you will hear the voice of your loved one helping you along your way.
Bill Fead
January 13, 2009
Thanks for your Military Service.
Past Commander V.F.W.
Mark C
January 13, 2009
Mr Newman,
Sir I wish to express my deepest gratitude to you for your devotion to the safety of our nation. Your heroic and courageous acts will always be remembered. To the family of Mr Newman may you find peace and comfort knowing that he will be remembered as a TRUE HERO. May he rest in peace
Dianne
January 13, 2009
Thank you for your service, Sir. My Brother was also a vietnam vet . you guys served our country and you deserved a much better homecoming then what some got. But I was always proud of our servicemen and always Thanked a VIETNAM VET .MAY YOU REST IN PEACE
Catherine
January 13, 2009
My condolences to the family of Mr.Newman.
Thank you,Sir for your great service to this Country and your fellow-man.
Mike Casey
January 13, 2009
Mr. Newman,
Sir, I would just like to say thank you for your dedicated service and sacrifice for our Country when you served with the "Screaming Eagles" in Vietnam. Because of you, many men are here today because you were there for them. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
Terence A. (Tony) Farrar
January 13, 2009
I'd like to express my sympathy to the Newman family. May God bless and keep all of you strong and in his grace. I too am an Army Vet. (1975-1979) and was willing to fight for the country that I love and have a lot of respect for the vets of the Vietnam War. I also had an older brother,now deceased,who was a Vietnam Vet. I am sure that the family was very proud of his heroic actions in that war and saving the lives of those depending on him. It sounds to me like he was a real" Knight in Shinning Armour". May he find rest in the lord. The Rev. Terence A.(Tony) Farrar, Greensboro, N.C.
Bonnie Worthman
January 13, 2009
Truely a Hero's Hero!
Tami Bramblett
January 13, 2009
Thank you for your service, Sir. I am sure generations of those men you saved will think of you often since you are the reason they are here! God Bless.
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