SUN CITY, FLORIDA -It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of James W. Bradin, 85, Colonel, U.S. Army Retired. The family was able to be with him in his final moments and we now reflect on his life. Jim was born in Pinehurst, North Carolina, the son of Benjamin M. Bradin and Anna Bower Bradin. He moved to post-war Berlin with his parents as a young child, where, among many other adventures, Jim was the first American dependent to become an Eagle Scout in Germany. This led to him taking an active role in the Boy Scouts for many, many years. As Jim grew into a rebellious teenager, his parents thought it best to send him to the Carlisle Military Academy in Bamberg, South Carolina. During his time at Carlisle, he met a girl from Orangeburg (S.C.) who would forever change his life. Upon graduation from Carlisle, he enrolled in The Citadel, in Charleston, South Carolina. Jim loved The Citadel and the military program, but he was having a little too much fun and found it difficult to fit in time for studying. In 1958 -- by the grace of God --Jim graduated from The Citadel with a degree in history and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. Thankfully, he was, by now, well adapted to wearing the limited wardrobe of uniforms! During his time at The Citadel, he began to date that lovely young girl from Orangeburg, our mother, Jervey Gramling. In June of 1958, Jim made the best decision of his life when he married Jervey and they began a journey that would last for 62 years. In his words, "She is a saint. God blessed me so, by talking that lady into sharing my wild and wooly life." Over the next 30 years, Jim and Jervey moved to military bases all over the United States, as well as Germany. In 1980, as fate would have it, Jim returned to The Citadel. He was assigned as the PMS, Professor of Military Science, followed by Commandant of Cadets. He would later serve on the Board of Visitors. Jim dedicated himself to his military career, but also made time for his family and community. He enjoyed sailing and camping with the family - dragging them along even when they did not want to go...he always encouraged his children to challenge themselves. Throughout his career, Jim was awarded 4 Silver Stars, 2 Bronze Stars with V device, the Distinguished Flying Cross, 22 Air Medals, the Purple Heart, 2 Meritorious Service Medals, and 2 Legions of Merit. On 14 September 2020, Jim Bradin was given his final assignment to Fiddler's Green, where he was reunited with his fellow cavalrymen. His service to his family and nation was one of total commitment - he never did anything halfway. He was an avid boater, military historian, and published author. He is survived by his wife, Jervey, his three children, James Bradin (Regina), Jr., Stuart Bradin (Kelly), and Michelle Holtzclaw (James), 6 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild. Jim will be cremated and, upon the passing of Jervey, they will be buried together in the Beaufort National Cemetery. Published Sept., 21, 2020 by The Citadel Alumni Association and also published in Charleston Post & Courier Sept. 19-20, 2020.
He was the author of "From Hot Air to Hellfire: The History of Army Attack Aviation" and "A Visual Novel of the War of Tomorrow : Helicopter Aces".
While a cadet at The Citadel (fall 1954-May 1958) he was a member of Charlie Company of the First Battalion. He was a member of the Bond Volunteers, the Summerall Guards, the Brigadier Newspaper Staff, the Regimental Color Guard, and the Men's Rifle team. His academic major was ______ and he was graduated with a degree in _________ in May 1958. He attended The Citadel from his home town of _________. (To be added soon-RBH).
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James W. Bradin
Silver Star (FIRST AWARD)
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 1703 (July 9, 1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 27 April 1969 while serving as Commanding Officer of the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, while he was flying in support of ground troops moving through dense jungle, the friendly elements suddenly came under automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenade fire from a well-concealed enemy force. Disregarding the intense hostile anti-aircraft fire, Major Bradin began circling the enemy positions to mark them with smoke grenades and cover them with suppressive fire. He remained over the area directing helicopter gunship assaults and tactical airstrikes until he observed a friendly observation helicopter crash near the hostile positions. Unhesitatingly, Major Bradin landed in the contact area and led an infantry squad through the enemy fusillade to the downed aircraft. Upon realizing that the two crew members had been fatally injured in the crash, he returned to his helicopter and again began circling the contact area. For over four hours while under continuous hostile fire, he directed supporting fire and coordinated the movements of the friendly elements until the enemy force had been defeated. Major Bradin's outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
James W. Bradin
Silver Star (SECOND AWARD)
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 2130 (August 25, 1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 9 July 1969 while serving as Commanding Officer of the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Major Braden received word that elements of the regiment's 2d Squadron were being attacked by a large, well-concealed enemy force. Major Bradin immediately called for helicopter gunship support and flew to the scene of the engagement. Ignoring the intense hostile automatic weapons fire directed at his aircraft, he made repeated low level passes over the enemy positions so that his door gunners could place accurate suppressive fire on them. When the gunships reached the contact area, he marked the enemy emplacements with smoke grenades and directed the aircraft in making rocket assaults. While flying at extremely low altitude, he spotted an enemy soldier attempting to escape from the area. Unhesitatingly, Major Bradin landed his helicopter and, armed with only a pistol, apprehended the fleeing soldier. Major Bradin's outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
James W. Bradin
Silver Star (THIRD AWARD)
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 2299 (September 16, 1969), Amended by G.O. 2757 (1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 18 June 1969 while serving as Commanding Officer of the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date in the vicinity of An Loc, Major Braden received word of a major assault in progress. He immediately deployed elements of the troop to the area and coordinated the multi-aircraft in the area. As he passed his aircraft over the contact zone Major Bradin discovered a series of bunker complexes in the rubber trees. While the ship was maneuvering at treetop level, a squad of North Vietnamese Army soldiers, equipped with anti-aircraft machine guns and other automatic weapons, engaged the helicopter with intense barrages of firepower. The enemy fire riddled the aircraft, piercing the legs of the pilot and killing the door gunners. The cockpit was immediately filled with smoke and debris and the damaged caused by the fire forced the ship to crash very near the hostile emplacements. The impact of the crash left Major Bradin with multiple gashes about his face. He immediately freed himself from the wreckage and dashed to the other side of the cockpit, armed only with a pistol, and managed to pull the seriously wounded pilot from the aircraft. He then entered the cargo compartment and attempted to drag the two bodies away from the burning ship but was violently thrown to the ground by exploding fuel tanks which engulfed the entire ship in flames. Major Bradin then returned to the pilot and carried him over two hundred meters to a defilade position and administered first aid. Major Bradin's gallant actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
James W. Bradin
Silver Star (FOURTH AWARD)
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 2796 (October 17, 1969), Amended by G.O. 3536 (1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting a Third Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Fourth Award of the Silver Star to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 17 July 1969 while serving as Commanding Officer of the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date while flying in his command and control helicopter, Major Bradin observed that a convoy had come under fire from a well-concealed enemy force south of An Loc. He quickly radioed for helicopter gunships and began making treetop-level passes over the hostile positions to mark them for gunship assaults. Although his aircraft immediately began receiving enemy automatic weapons and machine gun fire, he continued to mark the positions until he was informed that three friendly troops needed to be evacuated. Disregarding the hostile fusillade, he set his helicopter down on the highway and picked up the casualties. After flying them to a nearby aid station, Major Bradin returned to the contact area. Continuing to disregard the enemy anti-aircraft fire, he flew at a low altitude to direct the gunship assaults. When the enemy resistance had weakened, he began hovering over the area to look for enemy dead and wounded. Dissatisfied with the view from his aircraft, he landed and made a search on foot which resulted in the capture of one hostile soldier. Major Bradin's courage, devotion to duty and concern for the welfare of his fellow soldiers were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
James W. Bradin
Distinguished Flying Cross
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 3403 (October 27, 1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty on 2 June 1969 while serving as the Troop Commander of Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date during a reconnaissance mission, Major Bradin spotted three North Vietnamese soldiers hiding in the grass at the base of trees, and about ten enemy troops in a nearby wooded area. Although the enemy began firing with intense volleys of automatic weapons fire, Major Bradin returned suppressive fire as he maintained constant pressure on the three hiding enemy soldiers, pinning them down for possible capture. Directing his gunships on the ten enemy troops, he ignored their intense volleys of hostile fire while he dropped smoke grenades to mark their positions. Renewing his attention to the three hostile soldiers hiding in the thinly wooded area, he landed the Aero Rifle Platoon to capture them. In the ensuing engagement, two were captured and many of the enemy were killed. Major Bradin's devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
---------------------
BURIAL DETAILS: He was cremated and his ashes were given to his family. He will be interred at Beaufort National Cemetery, Beaufort, S.C. at a later date.
----------------------
Good man and a great family I had the fortune to cross paths with several times from childhood to adulthood. He will be missed. God bless you all. - Lou Rago (COL, USA Ret.), Frankfurt American H.S.'85, The Citadel '89 -- Louis B. Rago, II -- September 21, 2020 | Acquaintance
James, Stuart, Missy and Mrs. Bradin. Please except my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Colonel Bradin. He was a great leader, Mentor, and friend. I will be keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. Please find strength in this difficult time. May he rest in peace. -- John Gamby -- September 21, 2020 | Friend
Colonel "Big Jim" Bradin was the best boss I ever had. He was the real deal-honest to a fault; committed to his duty as an Army senior leader; the epitome of being a husband and father; he could make a boring meeting come alive and always challenged us to make a good difference everyday--just the best of the best. As the Germans would say, he was a "Stimmungskanone" the life of the party or in any situation for that matter--war or peace! Every morning when you would see him; he would pointedly ask, "What are you doing for your Country today?" You had better have a good answer. He was a terrific role model for all of us. No question he walked the walk. He was after all a true blue Citadel Man and a hard-chargin' Cavalryman! If he told you to run through a hail of fire and knock down a brick wall, you would unhesitatingly do it because you knew Colonel Jim Bradin would be leading the way. All of us were honored to know him and serve under him. We all thanked the Lord he had his beautiful Jervey by his side to keep him focused. We will miss you Colonel Big Jim. Please make a place for all of us in Heaven. -- BG Hugh B. Tant III -- September 20, 2020 | Served In Military Together
I so enjoyed getting to know Jim when my late husband Bill Risher, a Bamberg native, was Chairman of the Board, at the Citadel. Bill was very fond of Jim as they both had deep love for the Citadel and the opportunities it gave them. My thoughts are with you as you go through missing and grieving for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Sylvia Risher Hahn --
September 20, 2020 | Friend
Condolences to Jervey and all of Jim's family. Jim and I shared a desk at the US Army's Command & General Staff College. Jim's professionalism as a soldier's soldier was apparent in all he did. Equally important was his wonderful sense of humor. Jim also became a friend and supporter of our son, COL Nick P. Chronis, US Army (Ret.), (Citadel, '88), who retired recently after 30 years of honorable service in the US Army. With heartfelt sympathy, Nick -- Nicholas N. Chronis -- September 20, 2020 | Served In Military Together
He was the author of "From Hot Air to Hellfire: The History of Army Attack Aviation" and "A Visual Novel of the War of Tomorrow : Helicopter Aces".
While a cadet at The Citadel (fall 1954-May 1958) he was a member of Charlie Company of the First Battalion. He was a member of the Bond Volunteers, the Summerall Guards, the Brigadier Newspaper Staff, the Regimental Color Guard, and the Men's Rifle team. His academic major was ______ and he was graduated with a degree in _________ in May 1958. He attended The Citadel from his home town of _________. (To be added soon-RBH).
-------------------
James W. Bradin
Silver Star (FIRST AWARD)
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 1703 (July 9, 1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 27 April 1969 while serving as Commanding Officer of the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, while he was flying in support of ground troops moving through dense jungle, the friendly elements suddenly came under automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenade fire from a well-concealed enemy force. Disregarding the intense hostile anti-aircraft fire, Major Bradin began circling the enemy positions to mark them with smoke grenades and cover them with suppressive fire. He remained over the area directing helicopter gunship assaults and tactical airstrikes until he observed a friendly observation helicopter crash near the hostile positions. Unhesitatingly, Major Bradin landed in the contact area and led an infantry squad through the enemy fusillade to the downed aircraft. Upon realizing that the two crew members had been fatally injured in the crash, he returned to his helicopter and again began circling the contact area. For over four hours while under continuous hostile fire, he directed supporting fire and coordinated the movements of the friendly elements until the enemy force had been defeated. Major Bradin's outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
James W. Bradin
Silver Star (SECOND AWARD)
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 2130 (August 25, 1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 9 July 1969 while serving as Commanding Officer of the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Major Braden received word that elements of the regiment's 2d Squadron were being attacked by a large, well-concealed enemy force. Major Bradin immediately called for helicopter gunship support and flew to the scene of the engagement. Ignoring the intense hostile automatic weapons fire directed at his aircraft, he made repeated low level passes over the enemy positions so that his door gunners could place accurate suppressive fire on them. When the gunships reached the contact area, he marked the enemy emplacements with smoke grenades and directed the aircraft in making rocket assaults. While flying at extremely low altitude, he spotted an enemy soldier attempting to escape from the area. Unhesitatingly, Major Bradin landed his helicopter and, armed with only a pistol, apprehended the fleeing soldier. Major Bradin's outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
James W. Bradin
Silver Star (THIRD AWARD)
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 2299 (September 16, 1969), Amended by G.O. 2757 (1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 18 June 1969 while serving as Commanding Officer of the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date in the vicinity of An Loc, Major Braden received word of a major assault in progress. He immediately deployed elements of the troop to the area and coordinated the multi-aircraft in the area. As he passed his aircraft over the contact zone Major Bradin discovered a series of bunker complexes in the rubber trees. While the ship was maneuvering at treetop level, a squad of North Vietnamese Army soldiers, equipped with anti-aircraft machine guns and other automatic weapons, engaged the helicopter with intense barrages of firepower. The enemy fire riddled the aircraft, piercing the legs of the pilot and killing the door gunners. The cockpit was immediately filled with smoke and debris and the damaged caused by the fire forced the ship to crash very near the hostile emplacements. The impact of the crash left Major Bradin with multiple gashes about his face. He immediately freed himself from the wreckage and dashed to the other side of the cockpit, armed only with a pistol, and managed to pull the seriously wounded pilot from the aircraft. He then entered the cargo compartment and attempted to drag the two bodies away from the burning ship but was violently thrown to the ground by exploding fuel tanks which engulfed the entire ship in flames. Major Bradin then returned to the pilot and carried him over two hundred meters to a defilade position and administered first aid. Major Bradin's gallant actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
James W. Bradin
Silver Star (FOURTH AWARD)
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 2796 (October 17, 1969), Amended by G.O. 3536 (1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting a Third Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Fourth Award of the Silver Star to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 17 July 1969 while serving as Commanding Officer of the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date while flying in his command and control helicopter, Major Bradin observed that a convoy had come under fire from a well-concealed enemy force south of An Loc. He quickly radioed for helicopter gunships and began making treetop-level passes over the hostile positions to mark them for gunship assaults. Although his aircraft immediately began receiving enemy automatic weapons and machine gun fire, he continued to mark the positions until he was informed that three friendly troops needed to be evacuated. Disregarding the hostile fusillade, he set his helicopter down on the highway and picked up the casualties. After flying them to a nearby aid station, Major Bradin returned to the contact area. Continuing to disregard the enemy anti-aircraft fire, he flew at a low altitude to direct the gunship assaults. When the enemy resistance had weakened, he began hovering over the area to look for enemy dead and wounded. Dissatisfied with the view from his aircraft, he landed and made a search on foot which resulted in the capture of one hostile soldier. Major Bradin's courage, devotion to duty and concern for the welfare of his fellow soldiers were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
James W. Bradin
Distinguished Flying Cross
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 3403 (October 27, 1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty on 2 June 1969 while serving as the Troop Commander of Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date during a reconnaissance mission, Major Bradin spotted three North Vietnamese soldiers hiding in the grass at the base of trees, and about ten enemy troops in a nearby wooded area. Although the enemy began firing with intense volleys of automatic weapons fire, Major Bradin returned suppressive fire as he maintained constant pressure on the three hiding enemy soldiers, pinning them down for possible capture. Directing his gunships on the ten enemy troops, he ignored their intense volleys of hostile fire while he dropped smoke grenades to mark their positions. Renewing his attention to the three hostile soldiers hiding in the thinly wooded area, he landed the Aero Rifle Platoon to capture them. In the ensuing engagement, two were captured and many of the enemy were killed. Major Bradin's devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
---------------------
BURIAL DETAILS: He was cremated and his ashes were given to his family. He will be interred at Beaufort National Cemetery, Beaufort, S.C. at a later date.
----------------------
Good man and a great family I had the fortune to cross paths with several times from childhood to adulthood. He will be missed. God bless you all. - Lou Rago (COL, USA Ret.), Frankfurt American H.S.'85, The Citadel '89 -- Louis B. Rago, II -- September 21, 2020 | Acquaintance
James, Stuart, Missy and Mrs. Bradin. Please except my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Colonel Bradin. He was a great leader, Mentor, and friend. I will be keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. Please find strength in this difficult time. May he rest in peace. -- John Gamby -- September 21, 2020 | Friend
Colonel "Big Jim" Bradin was the best boss I ever had. He was the real deal-honest to a fault; committed to his duty as an Army senior leader; the epitome of being a husband and father; he could make a boring meeting come alive and always challenged us to make a good difference everyday--just the best of the best. As the Germans would say, he was a "Stimmungskanone" the life of the party or in any situation for that matter--war or peace! Every morning when you would see him; he would pointedly ask, "What are you doing for your Country today?" You had better have a good answer. He was a terrific role model for all of us. No question he walked the walk. He was after all a true blue Citadel Man and a hard-chargin' Cavalryman! If he told you to run through a hail of fire and knock down a brick wall, you would unhesitatingly do it because you knew Colonel Jim Bradin would be leading the way. All of us were honored to know him and serve under him. We all thanked the Lord he had his beautiful Jervey by his side to keep him focused. We will miss you Colonel Big Jim. Please make a place for all of us in Heaven. -- BG Hugh B. Tant III -- September 20, 2020 | Served In Military Together
I so enjoyed getting to know Jim when my late husband Bill Risher, a Bamberg native, was Chairman of the Board, at the Citadel. Bill was very fond of Jim as they both had deep love for the Citadel and the opportunities it gave them. My thoughts are with you as you go through missing and grieving for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Sylvia Risher Hahn --
September 20, 2020 | Friend
Condolences to Jervey and all of Jim's family. Jim and I shared a desk at the US Army's Command & General Staff College. Jim's professionalism as a soldier's soldier was apparent in all he did. Equally important was his wonderful sense of humor. Jim also became a friend and supporter of our son, COL Nick P. Chronis, US Army (Ret.), (Citadel, '88), who retired recently after 30 years of honorable service in the US Army. With heartfelt sympathy, Nick -- Nicholas N. Chronis -- September 20, 2020 | Served In Military Together
SUN CITY, FLORIDA -It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of James W. Bradin, 85, Colonel, U.S. Army Retired. The family was able to be with him in his final moments and we now reflect on his life. Jim was born in Pinehurst, North Carolina, the son of Benjamin M. Bradin and Anna Bower Bradin. He moved to post-war Berlin with his parents as a young child, where, among many other adventures, Jim was the first American dependent to become an Eagle Scout in Germany. This led to him taking an active role in the Boy Scouts for many, many years. As Jim grew into a rebellious teenager, his parents thought it best to send him to the Carlisle Military Academy in Bamberg, South Carolina. During his time at Carlisle, he met a girl from Orangeburg (S.C.) who would forever change his life. Upon graduation from Carlisle, he enrolled in The Citadel, in Charleston, South Carolina. Jim loved The Citadel and the military program, but he was having a little too much fun and found it difficult to fit in time for studying. In 1958 -- by the grace of God --Jim graduated from The Citadel with a degree in history and was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. Thankfully, he was, by now, well adapted to wearing the limited wardrobe of uniforms! During his time at The Citadel, he began to date that lovely young girl from Orangeburg, our mother, Jervey Gramling. In June of 1958, Jim made the best decision of his life when he married Jervey and they began a journey that would last for 62 years. In his words, "She is a saint. God blessed me so, by talking that lady into sharing my wild and wooly life." Over the next 30 years, Jim and Jervey moved to military bases all over the United States, as well as Germany. In 1980, as fate would have it, Jim returned to The Citadel. He was assigned as the PMS, Professor of Military Science, followed by Commandant of Cadets. He would later serve on the Board of Visitors. Jim dedicated himself to his military career, but also made time for his family and community. He enjoyed sailing and camping with the family - dragging them along even when they did not want to go...he always encouraged his children to challenge themselves. Throughout his career, Jim was awarded 4 Silver Stars, 2 Bronze Stars with V device, the Distinguished Flying Cross, 22 Air Medals, the Purple Heart, 2 Meritorious Service Medals, and 2 Legions of Merit. On 14 September 2020, Jim Bradin was given his final assignment to Fiddler's Green, where he was reunited with his fellow cavalrymen. His service to his family and nation was one of total commitment - he never did anything halfway. He was an avid boater, military historian, and published author. He is survived by his wife, Jervey, his three children, James Bradin (Regina), Jr., Stuart Bradin (Kelly), and Michelle Holtzclaw (James), 6 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild. Jim will be cremated and, upon the passing of Jervey, they will be buried together in the Beaufort National Cemetery. Published Sept., 21, 2020 by The Citadel Alumni Association and also published in Charleston Post & Courier Sept. 19-20, 2020.
He was the author of "From Hot Air to Hellfire: The History of Army Attack Aviation" and "A Visual Novel of the War of Tomorrow : Helicopter Aces".
While a cadet at The Citadel (fall 1954-May 1958) he was a member of Charlie Company of the First Battalion. He was a member of the Bond Volunteers, the Summerall Guards, the Brigadier Newspaper Staff, the Regimental Color Guard, and the Men's Rifle team. His academic major was ______ and he was graduated with a degree in _________ in May 1958. He attended The Citadel from his home town of _________. (To be added soon-RBH).
-------------------
James W. Bradin
Silver Star (FIRST AWARD)
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 1703 (July 9, 1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 27 April 1969 while serving as Commanding Officer of the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, while he was flying in support of ground troops moving through dense jungle, the friendly elements suddenly came under automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenade fire from a well-concealed enemy force. Disregarding the intense hostile anti-aircraft fire, Major Bradin began circling the enemy positions to mark them with smoke grenades and cover them with suppressive fire. He remained over the area directing helicopter gunship assaults and tactical airstrikes until he observed a friendly observation helicopter crash near the hostile positions. Unhesitatingly, Major Bradin landed in the contact area and led an infantry squad through the enemy fusillade to the downed aircraft. Upon realizing that the two crew members had been fatally injured in the crash, he returned to his helicopter and again began circling the contact area. For over four hours while under continuous hostile fire, he directed supporting fire and coordinated the movements of the friendly elements until the enemy force had been defeated. Major Bradin's outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
James W. Bradin
Silver Star (SECOND AWARD)
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 2130 (August 25, 1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 9 July 1969 while serving as Commanding Officer of the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Major Braden received word that elements of the regiment's 2d Squadron were being attacked by a large, well-concealed enemy force. Major Bradin immediately called for helicopter gunship support and flew to the scene of the engagement. Ignoring the intense hostile automatic weapons fire directed at his aircraft, he made repeated low level passes over the enemy positions so that his door gunners could place accurate suppressive fire on them. When the gunships reached the contact area, he marked the enemy emplacements with smoke grenades and directed the aircraft in making rocket assaults. While flying at extremely low altitude, he spotted an enemy soldier attempting to escape from the area. Unhesitatingly, Major Bradin landed his helicopter and, armed with only a pistol, apprehended the fleeing soldier. Major Bradin's outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
James W. Bradin
Silver Star (THIRD AWARD)
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 2299 (September 16, 1969), Amended by G.O. 2757 (1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 18 June 1969 while serving as Commanding Officer of the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date in the vicinity of An Loc, Major Braden received word of a major assault in progress. He immediately deployed elements of the troop to the area and coordinated the multi-aircraft in the area. As he passed his aircraft over the contact zone Major Bradin discovered a series of bunker complexes in the rubber trees. While the ship was maneuvering at treetop level, a squad of North Vietnamese Army soldiers, equipped with anti-aircraft machine guns and other automatic weapons, engaged the helicopter with intense barrages of firepower. The enemy fire riddled the aircraft, piercing the legs of the pilot and killing the door gunners. The cockpit was immediately filled with smoke and debris and the damaged caused by the fire forced the ship to crash very near the hostile emplacements. The impact of the crash left Major Bradin with multiple gashes about his face. He immediately freed himself from the wreckage and dashed to the other side of the cockpit, armed only with a pistol, and managed to pull the seriously wounded pilot from the aircraft. He then entered the cargo compartment and attempted to drag the two bodies away from the burning ship but was violently thrown to the ground by exploding fuel tanks which engulfed the entire ship in flames. Major Bradin then returned to the pilot and carried him over two hundred meters to a defilade position and administered first aid. Major Bradin's gallant actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
James W. Bradin
Silver Star (FOURTH AWARD)
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 2796 (October 17, 1969), Amended by G.O. 3536 (1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting a Third Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Fourth Award of the Silver Star to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 17 July 1969 while serving as Commanding Officer of the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date while flying in his command and control helicopter, Major Bradin observed that a convoy had come under fire from a well-concealed enemy force south of An Loc. He quickly radioed for helicopter gunships and began making treetop-level passes over the hostile positions to mark them for gunship assaults. Although his aircraft immediately began receiving enemy automatic weapons and machine gun fire, he continued to mark the positions until he was informed that three friendly troops needed to be evacuated. Disregarding the hostile fusillade, he set his helicopter down on the highway and picked up the casualties. After flying them to a nearby aid station, Major Bradin returned to the contact area. Continuing to disregard the enemy anti-aircraft fire, he flew at a low altitude to direct the gunship assaults. When the enemy resistance had weakened, he began hovering over the area to look for enemy dead and wounded. Dissatisfied with the view from his aircraft, he landed and made a search on foot which resulted in the capture of one hostile soldier. Major Bradin's courage, devotion to duty and concern for the welfare of his fellow soldiers were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
James W. Bradin
Distinguished Flying Cross
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 3403 (October 27, 1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty on 2 June 1969 while serving as the Troop Commander of Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date during a reconnaissance mission, Major Bradin spotted three North Vietnamese soldiers hiding in the grass at the base of trees, and about ten enemy troops in a nearby wooded area. Although the enemy began firing with intense volleys of automatic weapons fire, Major Bradin returned suppressive fire as he maintained constant pressure on the three hiding enemy soldiers, pinning them down for possible capture. Directing his gunships on the ten enemy troops, he ignored their intense volleys of hostile fire while he dropped smoke grenades to mark their positions. Renewing his attention to the three hostile soldiers hiding in the thinly wooded area, he landed the Aero Rifle Platoon to capture them. In the ensuing engagement, two were captured and many of the enemy were killed. Major Bradin's devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
---------------------
BURIAL DETAILS: He was cremated and his ashes were given to his family. He will be interred at Beaufort National Cemetery, Beaufort, S.C. at a later date.
----------------------
Good man and a great family I had the fortune to cross paths with several times from childhood to adulthood. He will be missed. God bless you all. - Lou Rago (COL, USA Ret.), Frankfurt American H.S.'85, The Citadel '89 -- Louis B. Rago, II -- September 21, 2020 | Acquaintance
James, Stuart, Missy and Mrs. Bradin. Please except my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Colonel Bradin. He was a great leader, Mentor, and friend. I will be keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. Please find strength in this difficult time. May he rest in peace. -- John Gamby -- September 21, 2020 | Friend
Colonel "Big Jim" Bradin was the best boss I ever had. He was the real deal-honest to a fault; committed to his duty as an Army senior leader; the epitome of being a husband and father; he could make a boring meeting come alive and always challenged us to make a good difference everyday--just the best of the best. As the Germans would say, he was a "Stimmungskanone" the life of the party or in any situation for that matter--war or peace! Every morning when you would see him; he would pointedly ask, "What are you doing for your Country today?" You had better have a good answer. He was a terrific role model for all of us. No question he walked the walk. He was after all a true blue Citadel Man and a hard-chargin' Cavalryman! If he told you to run through a hail of fire and knock down a brick wall, you would unhesitatingly do it because you knew Colonel Jim Bradin would be leading the way. All of us were honored to know him and serve under him. We all thanked the Lord he had his beautiful Jervey by his side to keep him focused. We will miss you Colonel Big Jim. Please make a place for all of us in Heaven. -- BG Hugh B. Tant III -- September 20, 2020 | Served In Military Together
I so enjoyed getting to know Jim when my late husband Bill Risher, a Bamberg native, was Chairman of the Board, at the Citadel. Bill was very fond of Jim as they both had deep love for the Citadel and the opportunities it gave them. My thoughts are with you as you go through missing and grieving for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Sylvia Risher Hahn --
September 20, 2020 | Friend
Condolences to Jervey and all of Jim's family. Jim and I shared a desk at the US Army's Command & General Staff College. Jim's professionalism as a soldier's soldier was apparent in all he did. Equally important was his wonderful sense of humor. Jim also became a friend and supporter of our son, COL Nick P. Chronis, US Army (Ret.), (Citadel, '88), who retired recently after 30 years of honorable service in the US Army. With heartfelt sympathy, Nick -- Nicholas N. Chronis -- September 20, 2020 | Served In Military Together
He was the author of "From Hot Air to Hellfire: The History of Army Attack Aviation" and "A Visual Novel of the War of Tomorrow : Helicopter Aces".
While a cadet at The Citadel (fall 1954-May 1958) he was a member of Charlie Company of the First Battalion. He was a member of the Bond Volunteers, the Summerall Guards, the Brigadier Newspaper Staff, the Regimental Color Guard, and the Men's Rifle team. His academic major was ______ and he was graduated with a degree in _________ in May 1958. He attended The Citadel from his home town of _________. (To be added soon-RBH).
-------------------
James W. Bradin
Silver Star (FIRST AWARD)
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 1703 (July 9, 1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 27 April 1969 while serving as Commanding Officer of the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, while he was flying in support of ground troops moving through dense jungle, the friendly elements suddenly came under automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenade fire from a well-concealed enemy force. Disregarding the intense hostile anti-aircraft fire, Major Bradin began circling the enemy positions to mark them with smoke grenades and cover them with suppressive fire. He remained over the area directing helicopter gunship assaults and tactical airstrikes until he observed a friendly observation helicopter crash near the hostile positions. Unhesitatingly, Major Bradin landed in the contact area and led an infantry squad through the enemy fusillade to the downed aircraft. Upon realizing that the two crew members had been fatally injured in the crash, he returned to his helicopter and again began circling the contact area. For over four hours while under continuous hostile fire, he directed supporting fire and coordinated the movements of the friendly elements until the enemy force had been defeated. Major Bradin's outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
James W. Bradin
Silver Star (SECOND AWARD)
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 2130 (August 25, 1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 9 July 1969 while serving as Commanding Officer of the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date, Major Braden received word that elements of the regiment's 2d Squadron were being attacked by a large, well-concealed enemy force. Major Bradin immediately called for helicopter gunship support and flew to the scene of the engagement. Ignoring the intense hostile automatic weapons fire directed at his aircraft, he made repeated low level passes over the enemy positions so that his door gunners could place accurate suppressive fire on them. When the gunships reached the contact area, he marked the enemy emplacements with smoke grenades and directed the aircraft in making rocket assaults. While flying at extremely low altitude, he spotted an enemy soldier attempting to escape from the area. Unhesitatingly, Major Bradin landed his helicopter and, armed with only a pistol, apprehended the fleeing soldier. Major Bradin's outstanding courage and devotion to duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
James W. Bradin
Silver Star (THIRD AWARD)
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 2299 (September 16, 1969), Amended by G.O. 2757 (1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting a Second Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Third Award of the Silver Star to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 18 June 1969 while serving as Commanding Officer of the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date in the vicinity of An Loc, Major Braden received word of a major assault in progress. He immediately deployed elements of the troop to the area and coordinated the multi-aircraft in the area. As he passed his aircraft over the contact zone Major Bradin discovered a series of bunker complexes in the rubber trees. While the ship was maneuvering at treetop level, a squad of North Vietnamese Army soldiers, equipped with anti-aircraft machine guns and other automatic weapons, engaged the helicopter with intense barrages of firepower. The enemy fire riddled the aircraft, piercing the legs of the pilot and killing the door gunners. The cockpit was immediately filled with smoke and debris and the damaged caused by the fire forced the ship to crash very near the hostile emplacements. The impact of the crash left Major Bradin with multiple gashes about his face. He immediately freed himself from the wreckage and dashed to the other side of the cockpit, armed only with a pistol, and managed to pull the seriously wounded pilot from the aircraft. He then entered the cargo compartment and attempted to drag the two bodies away from the burning ship but was violently thrown to the ground by exploding fuel tanks which engulfed the entire ship in flames. Major Bradin then returned to the pilot and carried him over two hundred meters to a defilade position and administered first aid. Major Bradin's gallant actions were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
James W. Bradin
Silver Star (FOURTH AWARD)
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 2796 (October 17, 1969), Amended by G.O. 3536 (1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918 (amended by an act of July 25, 1963), takes pleasure in presenting a Third Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Fourth Award of the Silver Star to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for gallantry in action while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an armed hostile force on 17 July 1969 while serving as Commanding Officer of the Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date while flying in his command and control helicopter, Major Bradin observed that a convoy had come under fire from a well-concealed enemy force south of An Loc. He quickly radioed for helicopter gunships and began making treetop-level passes over the hostile positions to mark them for gunship assaults. Although his aircraft immediately began receiving enemy automatic weapons and machine gun fire, he continued to mark the positions until he was informed that three friendly troops needed to be evacuated. Disregarding the hostile fusillade, he set his helicopter down on the highway and picked up the casualties. After flying them to a nearby aid station, Major Bradin returned to the contact area. Continuing to disregard the enemy anti-aircraft fire, he flew at a low altitude to direct the gunship assaults. When the enemy resistance had weakened, he began hovering over the area to look for enemy dead and wounded. Dissatisfied with the view from his aircraft, he landed and made a search on foot which resulted in the capture of one hostile soldier. Major Bradin's courage, devotion to duty and concern for the welfare of his fellow soldiers were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit and the United States Army.
James W. Bradin
Distinguished Flying Cross
AWARDED FOR ACTIONS DURING Vietnam War
Service: Army
GENERAL ORDERS: Headquarters, II Field Force Vietnam, General Orders No. 3403 (October 27, 1969)
CITATION: The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 2, 1926, takes pleasure in presenting the Distinguished Flying Cross to Major (Armor) James W. Bradin, United States Army, for heroism while participating in aerial flight evidenced by voluntary action above and beyond the call of duty on 2 June 1969 while serving as the Troop Commander of Air Cavalry Troop, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, in the Republic of Vietnam. On this date during a reconnaissance mission, Major Bradin spotted three North Vietnamese soldiers hiding in the grass at the base of trees, and about ten enemy troops in a nearby wooded area. Although the enemy began firing with intense volleys of automatic weapons fire, Major Bradin returned suppressive fire as he maintained constant pressure on the three hiding enemy soldiers, pinning them down for possible capture. Directing his gunships on the ten enemy troops, he ignored their intense volleys of hostile fire while he dropped smoke grenades to mark their positions. Renewing his attention to the three hostile soldiers hiding in the thinly wooded area, he landed the Aero Rifle Platoon to capture them. In the ensuing engagement, two were captured and many of the enemy were killed. Major Bradin's devotion to duty was in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflects great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.
---------------------
BURIAL DETAILS: He was cremated and his ashes were given to his family. He will be interred at Beaufort National Cemetery, Beaufort, S.C. at a later date.
----------------------
Good man and a great family I had the fortune to cross paths with several times from childhood to adulthood. He will be missed. God bless you all. - Lou Rago (COL, USA Ret.), Frankfurt American H.S.'85, The Citadel '89 -- Louis B. Rago, II -- September 21, 2020 | Acquaintance
James, Stuart, Missy and Mrs. Bradin. Please except my heartfelt condolences on the passing of Colonel Bradin. He was a great leader, Mentor, and friend. I will be keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. Please find strength in this difficult time. May he rest in peace. -- John Gamby -- September 21, 2020 | Friend
Colonel "Big Jim" Bradin was the best boss I ever had. He was the real deal-honest to a fault; committed to his duty as an Army senior leader; the epitome of being a husband and father; he could make a boring meeting come alive and always challenged us to make a good difference everyday--just the best of the best. As the Germans would say, he was a "Stimmungskanone" the life of the party or in any situation for that matter--war or peace! Every morning when you would see him; he would pointedly ask, "What are you doing for your Country today?" You had better have a good answer. He was a terrific role model for all of us. No question he walked the walk. He was after all a true blue Citadel Man and a hard-chargin' Cavalryman! If he told you to run through a hail of fire and knock down a brick wall, you would unhesitatingly do it because you knew Colonel Jim Bradin would be leading the way. All of us were honored to know him and serve under him. We all thanked the Lord he had his beautiful Jervey by his side to keep him focused. We will miss you Colonel Big Jim. Please make a place for all of us in Heaven. -- BG Hugh B. Tant III -- September 20, 2020 | Served In Military Together
I so enjoyed getting to know Jim when my late husband Bill Risher, a Bamberg native, was Chairman of the Board, at the Citadel. Bill was very fond of Jim as they both had deep love for the Citadel and the opportunities it gave them. My thoughts are with you as you go through missing and grieving for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Sylvia Risher Hahn --
September 20, 2020 | Friend
Condolences to Jervey and all of Jim's family. Jim and I shared a desk at the US Army's Command & General Staff College. Jim's professionalism as a soldier's soldier was apparent in all he did. Equally important was his wonderful sense of humor. Jim also became a friend and supporter of our son, COL Nick P. Chronis, US Army (Ret.), (Citadel, '88), who retired recently after 30 years of honorable service in the US Army. With heartfelt sympathy, Nick -- Nicholas N. Chronis -- September 20, 2020 | Served In Military Together
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