James E. Thompson was born on March 18, 1944.  He lived in Dillon, SC, until 1959, when he moved to Trenton, NJ.  He had two brothers, Raymond and John, and a sister, Ethel.  His home of record is Trenton.  He graduated from Trenton High School.  He played football and basketball.

He served in the US Marine Corps and he attained the rank of Sergeant (SGT).  He completed his basic training at Parris Island, SC.  He was later sent to Camp Lejeune for further training.  He was assigned to L Company, Third Battalion, First Marines. 

Thompson was killed in action on February 13, 1966, in Quang Ngai Republic, when he was wounded in the head.

He was survived by his mother and stepfather, Everleaner and John Fletcher, as well as his three siblings.

Sources: Various websites and NJVVMF.