James Carl "Jim" Eblen

James "Jim" C. Eblen 85, passed away peacefully with family by his side on June 6, 2016. Jim was born in Fort Leavenworth, Ks, Feb. 20, 1931 to Mabel and James Eblen. Jim joined the Navy in 1952 at the age of 21. He completed 3 tours in Vietnam serving aboard the USS Hancock. A member of the Old Antarctic Explorers Association (OAEA), Jim participated in several expeditions to the Continent including Operation Deep Freeze. After retiring from the Navy he went on work for Northrop as logistics analyst in the B-52 and F-18-E/F programs. During his tenure at Northrop Jim earned his master's degree at the age of 57. He resided in San Diego with his family after a 32 Year Navy career in which he retired in 1984 as Master Chief Petty Officer. Jim went on to work for Northrop Grumman, retiring in 1996. Jim dedicated a large portion of his life to helping others, a staple of his efforts benefiting the betterment of veterans. He fiercely supported his family through good times and bad, and was unfailingly available to friends and colleagues to whom he could lend a helping hand. Jim pledged 52 years of allegiance to the Fleet Reserve Association and served as National President from 1995 to 1996. He was a lifetime member of the VFW, the American Legion, and Surface Navy Warfare. Other organizations Jim supported with his time and endless energy include the Disabled American Veterans (DAV), the SDPD Volunteer Patrol Association, and the CERT program. Jim was a founder of the Navy Sailor of the year program in San Diego. Jim leaves behind his doting wife of 49 years, Ruth Eblen, three children, nine grandchildren, and 15 great-grandchildren. Jim will be sorely missed by his family, including extended family and friends who will treasure his honorable accolades and positive spirit always. Memorial services will be held at FRA branch 289, Sunday June 26 at 2 p.m., 659 Silver Strand Boulevard, Imperial Beach. Funeral with military honors and interment will be held at Miramar National Cemetery, date to be announced.