James L. Jones, Sr.

James Logan Jones Sr. (June 26, 1912 – March 30, 1986) was decorated intelligence officer in the United States Marine Corps (USMC)

He was the father of James L. Jones Jr., the 32nd Commandant of the United States Marine Corps, Supreme Allied Commander of Europe and U.S. National Security Advisor and the brother of LtGen William K. Jones (USMC), Navy Cross recipient.

Early life and career James Logan Jones was born on June 26, 1912, in Kansas City, Missouri, the son of Irene Catherine (née Kenefick) and Charles Vernon Jones. He grew up in Kansas City and Joplin, Missouri. His grandfather founded The Jones Store.

Military service

Jones signed for commission in the United States Army Reserve, serving from September 13, 1933, to September 5, 1938. With the onset of World War II, in 1940, IHC recalled him from Africa,

In May 1941, Jones began active duty at Marine Corps Barracks, Quantico, Virginia, and was assigned to the 1st Marine Division (1st MARDIV), Fleet Marine Force (FMF). While at Quantico, he completed the Reserve Officers' training and then served as the Commanding Officer (CO), Headquarters Company, Task Force 18, Atlantic Fleet. Due to the success of his reconnaissance company, at the recommendation of General Holland Smith to the Marine Corps commandant, the company became a battalion. he returned to the States to a post at the recruit depot at Parris Island He left active duty on February 15, 1946.