James "Pappy" Coleman

James Lloyd Coleman, 74, of Connelly Springs, NC, formerly of Turkey Creek, Ky., passed away Monday, 16 Jun 14 at his residence.

He was born July 6, 1939 in Pike County, Ky. the son of the late Ira and Beulah Thompson Coleman. He was retired from the United States Army after 18 years of service. He served in Vietnam with the 54th Medical Detachment. He was inducted into the DUSTOFF Hall of Fameas well as the Army Aviation Association of American Hall of Fame.

Staff Sergeant James “Pappy” Coleman epitomized the DUSTOFF medic: completely fearless, professionally expert, and totally dedicated to life saving. There was no soldier who served with this man who would not want him above all others to be their medic if they were wounded in battle. He was among the most highly decorated medics of the Vietnam War. He was also one of the most competent and courageous.