Posted by Josh Waldeck on March 13, 2022:

James Jolly Waldeck Jr. died Friday, November 15, 2013 in Williamsburg, VA at age 79. Born January 6, 1934 in Hampton to James Jolly Sr. and Rose Waldeck, he was preceded in death by his parents. Jim grew up in Hampton and knew early on that he wanted to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, NY. To prepare for this, he attended Fork Union Military Academy and graduated in 1951. He graduated from West Point in 1956 with a Bachelor of Science degree, and he later earned a Master of Science degree in Operations Research, Systems Analysis from Georgia Tech. After graduation from West Point, Jim started what was to be a 30-year career in the Army as an infantry officer. Jim commanded airborne infantry units from platoon through brigade levels in West Germany, the 82d Airborne Division, the 101st Airborne Division, and the 172d Infantry Brigade. He served two combat tours in Viet Nam, where he was awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star with V device, the Purple Heart with oak leaf cluster, and the Air Medal. Other awards throughout his career included the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious Service Medal, and the Army Commendation Medal. Jim's service on the Army Staff helped with the Army's transition from the draft to the Modern Volunteer Army. He subsequently served as one of the initial recruiting group commanders, implementing the Volunteer Army policy he helped design. Jim retired from the Army in 1986. He lived to see his grandson graduate from West Point in May of 2013. Jim was a loving husband, father and grandfather. He was a true soldier, and lived every day by the guiding principles of Duty, Honor and Country. He shared his wife's passion for raising, breeding and, occasionally showing Airedale Terriers. He also loved German cars, and he was active for many years during his retirement in local enthusiast clubs. Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Sue Ann, his four sons: James III (Wendy), Michael (Nancy), John (Debi), and Peter (Josie), and eight grandchildren. He is interred at Arlington National Cemetery at Section 64 Site 6921.

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