James L. Dozier

This week’s Veterans Spotlight shines on James L. Dozier, born in April 1931 in Arcadia, Florida. He graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1956, where he was a classmate of General Norman Schwarzkopf. He later earned a Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Arizona.

Dozier’s military career spanned multiple deployments and commands. Serving in the Army from 1950 to 1985, he deployed to Vietnam with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment from 1968 to 1969. He also held the position of Deputy Chief of Staff at NATO’s Southern European land forces.

Major General Dozier is notably remembered for being kidnapped by the Red Brigades, a Marxist guerrilla group. He was held hostage for 42 days before being rescued by an Italian police special operations unit. This experience significantly impacted him, leading to his involvement with the U.S. Air Force, where he taught a course on hostage avoidance and survival.

Throughout his service, Dozier received numerous awards and decorations, including the Army Distinguished Service Medal, the Silver Star, the Purple Heart (for actions during the Vietnam War), the Legion of Merit, and the Bronze Star Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters and “V” Device.

Dozier is married to Judith Stimpson, and they have two children. Their daughter, Cheryl, served as a second lieutenant in the Air Force, and their son, Scott, served in the Coast Guard. After retiring from active military service, Dozier continued to contribute to his community through roles with the Lee County Electric Cooperative and Disabled Veterans. He also authored a memoir titled “Finding My Pole Star.”

GoVets Thanks you for your service.