At a glance
Lt. Col., U.S. Air Force, 1950 to 1972·Fighter pilot·Shot down 3 times in Vietnam·Two tours in Vietnam (1965 to 1966) and one in Korea (1952 to 1953)·Father of 4·Died February 1, 1992, at 64
James's story
My dad, Lt. Col. James Edward Colson, USAF fighter pilot, was shot down 3 times in Vietnam. He was sprayed with Agent Orange while on the ground. He died February 1, 1992, at the age of 64, after 26 years of Agent Orange.
Father of 4. USAF 1950 to 1972. Two tours in Vietnam and one tour in Korea.
Condolences for James's family
You don't need to have known James to leave a note here. If this story touched you, leave your condolences, a prayer, or a few kind words for James's family. Every note shows up right here on this page.
Be the first to leave a note.
Kind notes go up on this page automatically, usually within an hour. No account needed.
Help tell James's story
Have a photo, a correction, or more to add?
Help for families
Official places to learn more. Listing a resource here doesn't mean anyone qualifies for it.
- VVMF In Memory programHonors Vietnam veterans who came home and later died from causes related to their service. VVMF sets its own rules for who is included.
- Agent Orange and VA disability
- The PACT Act and your VA benefits
- Survivor benefits (Dependency and Indemnity Compensation)
- Find an accredited representative to help with a claim
- Request military service records
- Correcting military service records
- VA mental health care
Where this story comes from
- FAMILY ACCOUNT Shared by his wife with Fire Swept Trail, October 2026. Not independently verified.