Texas Military Forces
Hall of Honor
James R.
Harrison
James
R. Harrison was born to a military family at Fort Sam Houston, Texas on
13 July 1930. Upon graduation from high school, he began his military
career by enlisting in Company B, 736th Ordnance Battalion, 36th
Infantry Division, on 4 September 1947. Throughout his career, Mr.
Harrison was respected both by seniors and subordinates alike. Not only
did he excel in his normal duty assignments, he sought and performed
additional duties in an outstanding manner. As the chief instructor of
the Weapons Committee at the Texas National Guard Academy, he developed
a program of instruction for the officer candidates that has never been
equaled. He performed this function for 30 years, from 1957 to 1987.
A family man since he was married in 1957, he coached Little League
baseball, was active in the Lanier High School Booster Club, served on
the Board of Directors of the National Guard Association of Texas and
was a founding member of the Warrant Officers Association. During his
many activities, he always represented the Texas National Guard in a
highly positive manner and was known for his dedication, initiative and
positive attitude. Since his retirement from the Army National Guard,
Mr. Harrison has been very active in the Cosmopolitan Club, a diabetes
support organization. He retired 30 July 1990 as a chief warrant officer
four from Company D, 249th Support Battalion, 49th Armored Division.
In recognition of over 40 years of service to his state and nation, Mr.
Harrison was awarded the Lone Star Distinguished Service Medal, the Army
Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal and numerous
other state and federal awards.
Mr. Harrison will always be remembered for his skills, cooperative
attitude, perseverance, dedication to duty and his love for the state
and nation. Not only did he excel as a soldier, but his activities in
his community spread the word about the Military Forces of the State
with many individuals considering him as "Mr. National Guard" in the
community. He has set the example for many young soldiers to follow for
years to come.
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