Jim Bogart was born in his hometown of Spokane, Washington. He joined the US Air Force in November of 1954. His first job was as an Airborne Radio Operator for KC-97’s. Then he transitioned to in-flight Refueling Specialist (boom operator) for KC-97/KC-135’s. Jim graduated from OCS Class 63A and also graduated from Navigator Flight School.
His assignments included a stint as a Navigator for C-124’s at Robins AFB. Then he served as a Rescue Navigator for HC-54 and HC-130 at Laies AB in the Azores. Jim was sent to Hill AFB to ARRS school where he was a Flight Instructor. He spent time in Saudi Arabia with the Military Aid & Assistance Group (MAAG).
He attended the Air Command & Staff College and then was a Controller with the ARRS Command Post at Scott AFB. Next, Jim was the Chief, Operations Division for DDMS (DoD Space Shuttle Support Office) at Patrick AFB, FL. Finally, he retired from active duty as a Lt. Col. on March 1, 1987.
While in the Air Force, Jim also attended Squadron Officer School and the National Defense University. He earned a BA degree from Park College and an MS degree from Troy State University. His wife, Uvada (Vada) hails from Melba, Idaho. They have 5 children: Emily, Mark, David, Steven and Kim. In addition, they have been blessed with 18 grandchildren (including 6 step-grandchildren), 2 grandsons-in-law and 1 great-granddaughter (a great grandson is due in April).
Jim and Vada spend about 12 weeks each year traveling in their motor home. Jim’s interests also include NASCAR racing, boating, water sports, and tinkering (mechanical work, building, and so on). Jim says they are planning to see everyone in San Antonio this May.
