James "Jim" Edward Menditto

Jim was born on September 20, 1939, in Astoria, New York to Frank and Margaret Menditto. An excellent student, Jim abruptly ended his high school studies on September 21, 1956, when an English teacher asked him to turn in his homework assignment. Jim explained he had a rule not to do homework on his birthday and the ensuing argument led the teacher to send Jim to the principal’s office. Jim never made it there. Instead, he left the school building and walked into his local military recruiting office where he enlisted at the age of 17 in the United States Air Force. (He obtained parental consent for his early enlistment by telling his mother she was signing a field trip permission form). He left New York for basic training in San Antonio two weeks later.

Jim was an exceptional Airman. In a 26-year career, he rose to the level of Chief Master Sergeant (E-9), the highest rank for an enlisted officer. He served his country around the world including in Kadena AFB in Japan; Clark AFB in the Philippines; and DaNang AFB in Vietnam. For his service during the Vietnam War, Jim was awarded the Vietnam Service Medal with One Bronze Star, and the Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross.

From 1973 through 1980, Jim was stationed at Royal Air Force Base Lakenheath and Royal Air Force Base Mildenhall, where he was promoted to Command Chief Master Sergeant of the entire Third Air Force, with a direct report to Major General William C. Norris, who he advised on enlisted policy, morale, and mission readiness across the command.

Following his service to his country, Jim enjoyed a second career at American University and American University School of Law in Washington, DC where he was the Director of Facilities. There, he worked closely with Dean of the Law School, Claudio Grossman, on the re-purposing of a commercial building to serve as AU’s law school. Upon his retirement from American University, he volunteered as the head coach to the American University varsity golf team.

But Jim’s most important work – a labor of love -- was caring for his beloved wife, Peggy, 24/7, for 18 years following a disabling stroke she suffered. There are no words to describe the love, sacrifice, and compassion that were necessary to fulfill that mission.

Jim is survived by his sons, James Richard and John Edward, his daughters-in-law, Teresa Becker and Lauri Menditto, his five grandchildren (Ethan, Kevin, Maggie, Cal, and Katherine), one great grandchild (Olive), a niece (Rosemary), and nephew (Vincent) – all of whom loved him dearly. In turn, Jim loved them back, taking special joy in caring for his grandchildren when they were young and teaching them how to swing a golf club.

A celebration of life service will be held for Jim on a date to be determined. Burial will be at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia with full military honors.