FAST FIVE Jim Culpepper: Celebrating veterans 365 days a year

Meet Jim Culpepper, Vietnam veteran and commander of the Post Falls American Legion Post 143.

1) When and why did you enlist in the military?

I enlisted in the U.S. Navy in July of 1964 and went to boot camp at Naval Training Center San Diego. 

2) Where did you serve and what did you do there?

After boot camp, I went to radar school at Treasure Island, San Francisco. After graduating, I was stationed aboard the USS TORTUGA (LSD-26). In August 1964 to 1968, the USS Tortuga was deployed to the South China Seas and operated out of Yokosuka. In June 1966, anchored at the Mouth of the Mekong to be a floating base for PBR's (Patrol Boat, River) of Task Force 116. The ship was in and out the South China seas until Dec. 31, 1967. I left the Navy in July 1968. Medals — Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device (1964), National Defense Medal.

3) Where did you go after the Navy?

In August 1978, I enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserve and retired in September 1996 as an E7 SFC. Held the first sergeant slot for two years. Medals — Army Reserve Components Training Ribbon, Army Achievement Medal (three), Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Army Reserve Component Achievement Medal.

In 1975, I started my career with the Idaho State Police and retired after 25 years. While serving, I was a DUI instructor, range master and field training officer. Retired with a master's certificate.

While serving with the state police I was also serving with the Post Falls Fire and Ambulance (13 years). I was an EMTA, light and heavy extrication instructor. Retired as assistant fire chief.

I then became involved with the American Legion and in 2019 assumed the role as commander of Post 143 in Post Falls. I will be leaving that position in April 2025. In July 2025, I will assume the role as District 1 commander, also.

4) Who will you be thinking of this Veterans Day?

This Veterans Day I will be thinking of the POW/MIAs that did not make it back, and their loved ones who are still holding out hope for some word as to what happened to them. Also of the veterans that made it home, but still suffering, that they will find inner peace as I have with myself.  

5) What would you like our community to know about the meaning of Veterans Day and why it matters that we honor our veterans?

As we celebrate Veterans Day, it is a day that we thank our veterans for protecting our rights so we can live the life we choose. This should be celebrated 365 days for these men and women who went above and beyond the call of duty to protect us from evil. Some gave the ultimate price. A simple "thank you" would mean a lot to a veteran.