VETERANS’ STORIES

FEATURED VETERAN

James Duda: A Legacy of Courage and Service

Born in Fulton, New York, James Duda graduated from Hartwick College in 1968, during the height of the Vietnam War. When a fraternity brother mentioned joining the Marine Corps, Duda felt compelled to serve. After all, he was shaped by a family tradition of military service, with his father and uncles having served as World War II veterans.
After completing Officer Candidate School and rigorous training at Quantico, Virginia, Duda embarked on his military journey. He was first assigned to Mike Company, 3rd Battalion, 26th Marine Regiment, as an infantry platoon commander, leading 45 Marines in the demanding northern I Corps region of Vietnam. Later, he joined the elite 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, conducting long-range recon missions deep in hostile territory. Reflecting on his service, Duda noted, “My Vietnam time was based really in two parts: first as a basic Infantry Platoon Commander, then leading small unit 6 man recon teams”.
Duda’s leadership and bravery during patrols and ambushes earned him the Bronze Star with Combat “V,” the Combat Action Ribbon, and the Vietnamese Cross of Galantry. After his 13-month tour, he returned to Quantico and was selected for advanced training in Farsi at the Defense Language Institute. However, due to post-war restructuring, the billet was reassigned, and Duda chose to transition out of the Marine Corps in 1971 as a First Lieutenant.
In civilian life, Duda pursued a successful career in telecommunications marketing. In 2002, he and his wife Karen retired to Amelia Island, Florida, drawn by its charm and community. After a brief move to Dallas to be near their son and his family, they returned to Fernandina Beach in 2017, where they have since made their home.
Duda remains deeply connected to his Marine Corps roots, celebrating the Corps’ birthday and Veterans Day each year in Fernandina Beach, honoring the bonds forged during his service.