Veterans Affairs

Honoring our local heroes

Hometown Heroes Banner Program

  • Celebrate Chester’s civil service personnel – past and present – with street pole banners!
  • Banners are $190
  • Installation is free!
  • Download the application here or pick up at City Hall
  • Applications accepted year-round
  • Banners are approved and installed in batches as they are received
  • For more information or questions, contact Councilman Shy’Quan Davis (sdavis@cityofchesterpa.gov | 610-447-7914)
Download Application

City of Chester Veterans Hall

AIR FORCE

Barry P. James, Sr.

Air Force | 1965 - 1969 | E-5 Staff Sergeant

A Life of Service, Resilience, and Unconditional Love – Barry P. James, Sr. was born in Media, Pennsylvania, and raised in the Flower Hill Housing Project in Chester, Pennsylvania. Growing up in a single-parent household under the care of his mother Elward L. “Gail” Gales-James, Barry learned . . .

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Barry P. James, Sr

A Life of Service, Resilience, and Unconditional Love

U.S. Air Force | 1965-1969 | E-5 (Staff Sergeant (SSgt))

Barry P. James, Sr. was born in Media, Pennsylvania, and raised in the Flower Hill Housing Project in Chester, Pennsylvania. Growing up in a single-parent household under the care of his mother Elward L. “Gail” Gales-James, Barry learned the profound meaning of unconditional love—a principle his mother instilled in him after the untimely loss of his father, John C. James, who passed away when Barry was just three years old.

Barry demonstrated courage and compassion from a young age. At only ten years old, he saved his brother from drowning, a heroic act that underscored his innate selflessness. At fifteen, he carried a man who had lost his legs to diabetes up a flight of stairs, despite the fact that this same man had injured Barry four years earlier. This remarkable act of kindness taught Barry a life-defining lesson about the power of forgiveness.

A proud graduate of Chester High School’s Class of 1965, Barry answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force. After completing basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas, he became certified as a heavy equipment operator. Barry served 14 months in the Vietnam War, where he displayed bravery and dedication. His service earned him several distinguished medals, including the National Defense Service Medal (NDSM), the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Meritorious Service Medal. He served honorably until his discharge in 1969.

Following his military service, Barry married his high school sweetheart, Loretta James. Their bond is a testament to enduring love—they have been married for 56 years and together for an extraordinary 62 years. They raised one son, Barry James, Jr., and Barry is also the proud father-in-love to Rena and the devoted grandfather to Aderes.

Shortly after his marriage, Barry embarked on a successful career with Sun Oil Company, where he faithfully served for 38 years before retiring.

Barry’s commitment to service extended far beyond his career. A dedicated member of Shiloh Baptist Church in Chester, Pennsylvania, he serves as a deacon and previously taught Bible study on Praise 1590 AM for three years. His passion for community impact led him to co-found the Chester Ski Club with his friend, John Miller. Through this initiative, Barry introduced inner-city children to the art and joy of skiing, creating lasting opportunities for growth and recreation.

Currently, Barry channels his energy into supporting veterans, particularly those affected by PTSD from the Vietnam War. He also assists individuals globally in securing their rightful military benefits. His unwavering dedication to serving others earned him the prestigious 2023 United States Presidential Volunteer Service Award, a testament to his lifelong commitment to uplifting those in need.

Barry P. James, Sr.’s life is a powerful narrative of resilience, forgiveness, and selfless service. From his acts of heroism as a young boy to his impactful work as a community leader and advocate, Barry embodies the true spirit of giving, love, and enduring strength.