BRIEFING DOCUMENT: James Darrell "Jimmy" Waddell

Date: October 26, 2023

Subject: Life and Military Service of James Darrell "Jimmy" Waddell

Summary:

This document details the life and military service of James Darrell "Jimmy" Waddell, who was born on July 11, 1949, and died on April 14, 1971, during his second tour in Vietnam. The information highlights his upbringing in Texas, his military training, his service in Vietnam, and the circumstances surrounding his death. The text emphasizes his courage through awarded medals and paints a picture of a young man who served his country.

Key Themes and Facts:

Early Life and Family:

Jimmy was born in Odessa, Texas, on July 11, 1949, to Dorothy Leona Cope and William James Waddell.

His family moved to Coleman in 1960 and then to Lamesa, where he graduated from high school in 1967.

Military Service:

He enlisted in the Army in July 1967 and underwent basic training at Fort Polk, Louisiana.

He received Red Missile training at White Sands Proving Grounds in New Mexico.

He served in Korea for five months.

He served two tours in Vietnam.

The first tour included service near Saigon as a gunner on a personnel carrier, and he was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor and the Purple Heart for being wounded in action.

After his first tour, he returned to Fort Hood, Texas, and trained as an Armor Crewman. He returned to Vietnam for his second tour in November 1970.

He was assigned to E Troop, 2nd Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment.

Marriage: He married Brinda Mae Ward on December 23, 1969.

Death:

Waddell was killed on April 14, 1971, in Binh Thuy Province, South Vietnam, while training a new driver in a Sheridan tank.

He was giving instructions from outside the tank when the driver downshifted unexpectedly, throwing Waddell from the vehicle where he was run over.

His body was repatriated and buried in Coleman City Cemetery on April 25, 1971.

Posthumous Recognition: He was posthumously promoted and was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor, the Bronze Star with Merit, and the Purple Heart.

Personal Remembrance: A remembrance by his sister, Brenda, on The Wall of Faces webpage, notes: "James... I am your older sister.. Brenda.. You were always my best friend."

Key Ideas and Implications:

Sacrifice and Valor: The text highlights the sacrifices of a young man who served in a combat zone, was wounded, and ultimately gave his life in service. His awards, including the Bronze Star with Valor and the Purple Heart, speak to his courage and dedication.

Training Accident: Waddell's death is a poignant reminder of the inherent dangers of military service, not just in combat, but also in training. The incident involving the Sheridan tank emphasizes the often unforgiving nature of military equipment and environments.

Family Impact: The sister's remembrance serves as a reminder of the personal cost of war, underscoring the enduring impact on family members who mourn the loss of loved ones who served.

Quotes:

"James... I am your older sister.. Brenda.. You were always my best friend." - Sister's remembrance from The Wall of Faces webpage.

Conclusion:

This document highlights the service and sacrifice of James Darrell "Jimmy" Waddell. His life story, from his early years in Texas to his service in Vietnam and his tragic death, illustrates the commitment of individuals who served during a turbulent period in American history. His recognition through military awards and the loving remembrance of his family highlight the enduring impact he had.