Got a call from Linda Peterson-Combs saying the Daughter of Seawolf James D. McSwain ran into her at a State Fair Veteran's table and told Linda that her father had passed away a few weeks ago.
Linda gave me her phone number and I called and talked with Daughter Ragan this morning.
Seawolf James David "Moonbeam" McSWAIN, AO2, Gunner, Det 4, 6/20/1969 to 6/14/1970, passed away 8/27/2019, "succumbed to the illnesses that were brought on by his exposure to the toxic chemical agent orange during his time at war."
Obituary and PhotoJames David McSwain
JULY 25, 1946 – AUGUST 27, 2019
James David McSwain was born on July 25th,1946, to a small farm family in Beaumont, Texas. James served in the Navy during the Vietnam war, where he specialized as a helicopter gunner in the volunteer HA(L)-3, nicknamed the "Seawolves,". This unit supported Naval Special Warfare operations, was the first fleet of its type in the Navy and is one of the most decorated naval squadrons in history. He is a decorated veteran, that was awarded multiple medals for his bravery, relentlessness, and commitment. He saved countless American lives during his time in the Navy. James had multiple careers once he returned home from the war. He was a natural-born leader and entrepreneur. He owned several businesses in his lifetime. His two most long-standing careers were his work as a mechanic, and his time as a truck driver, where he was able to drive the open road satisfied the rolling Stone heart that he was born with. He had quiet intimidation about him that served him well as he visited bars, riding his motorcycle, winning pool trophies, and falling in love. James was a hopeless romantic. He loved to dance, and he was good at it, and he knew it. He was married multiple times each time speckling the Earth with beautiful, strong-willed daughters. In the end, he spent most of his life with a Pacific islander woman who matched him in stubbornness but preceded him in death almost three years before, to the day. For as strong, resourceful, and stubborn as he was, he was gracious and loved unconditionally. He gave all his resources and time to anyone he considered family. James's life was wild and hard, but he lived it on his terms and passionately. On August 26th at 9 a.m., he succumbed to the illnesses that were brought on by his exposure to the toxic chemical agent orange during his time at war. He passed away peacefully in his sleep, at home with loved ones by his side. He leaves behind four blood relative daughters, Angela, Reagan, Lyssa and Stevie, many grandchildren, and many step-children whom he raised as his own.
Find A Grave MemorialIf there are any Det 4 Seawolves who flew with James, and wish to speak with the family, let me know and I will give you contact info.
Dan
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