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April 29, 2026
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Download official Senate Record PDFReturn to issue contextMr. WICKER. Mr. President, today I recognize the distinguished career and extraordinary service of LTG Thomas L. James, U.S. Army. A native of Petal, MS, Lieutenant General James served in uniform for more than four decades, leaving an indelible mark on the security of our Nation.
journey by enlisting in the Mississippi National Guard. He served first as a medic and operating room technician with the 114th Support Group. Later, he joined the 20th Special Forces Group (Airborne).
care, unit readiness, and high standards of service—values that would define his entire career. In 1988, after completing his education at the University of Southern Mississippi and earning his commission through ROTC, he entered Active Duty as an Army aviator.
platoon to brigade. In July 2014, he assumed leadership of the 1st Space Brigade. Under his charge, the Army's only brigade dedicated to space operations became more adept at missile warning, satellite communications, and space situational awareness. Combatant commanders across the globe benefit from these enhanced capabilities.
Space Component Command, Lieutenant General James held a number of senior roles. Among his responsibilities, he handled global operations, planning, and exercises in support of joint and allied forces.
When U.S. Space Command was reestablished in 2019, Lieutenant General James was selected to command Joint Task Force-Space Defense. He oversaw the defense of critical space assets and the integration of space capabilities into the joint force. He became the Deputy Commander of Combined Joint Task Force-Space Operations. Then, in December 2023, he was confirmed as Deputy Commander of U.S. Space Command. His promotion to lieutenant general took place at the armory in Hattiesburg, MS. It was the site where he took his oath of enlistment more than 40 years earlier, creating a fitting symbol of a life dedicated to service.
the war in Afghanistan. He is a decorated veteran. His most notable awards include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, two awards of the Legion of Merit, and two Bronze Star Medals. Notably, he is the first Army space operations officer to advance beyond the rank of brigadier general, a testament to his pioneering role in elevating space as a warfighting domain.
the sacrifice and support of his family. His wife Nicole and his daughter Rachel have stood beside him these many years. They have shared in the hardships of military life and contributed immeasurably to his success. Their strength, patience, and devotion exemplify the resilience of military families who give so much in service to the Nation.
LTG Thomas L. James. We are grateful for his faithful service to the United States. His career reflects honor upon his character, his family, the people of Mississippi, the Army, U.S. Space Command, and the Nation he has so ably defended.