James "Jimmy" Mosconis
U.S. Army, 1967 – 1969
Jimmy Mosconis, born in March 1944 in Apalachicola, Florida, grew up in a maritime community deeply influenced by World War II experiences, including his own family's direct encounters with wartime incidents offshore. Drafted into the Army in 1968, Jimmy served as a staff sergeant and platoon leader with the 199th Light Infantry Brigade near Saigon, Vietnam. His experiences in combat significantly shaped his sense of duty and leadership. After his military service, Jimmy returned home and pursued entrepreneurship, establishing and operating successful businesses such as a longstanding local restaurant. In 1982, he represented Florida at the dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C. Deeply committed to recognizing military sacrifices, Jimmy spearheaded the establishment of the Three Servicemen Statue South in Apalachicola, cast from the same molds as the iconic memorial in Washington, D.C. He continues to champion veterans' causes, historical preservation, and remains an active advocate within his local and broader veteran communities.
Full Interview
Interview Summary
Access the complete transcript here
Introduction (00:47 – 01:41)
Growing Up in Apalachicola (01:41 – 05:18)
Drafted and Motivated by Duty (05:18 – 07:21)
Leadership and Combat in Vietnam (08:27 – 17:16)
Daily Life in the Field (17:16 – 32:47)
Coming Home (32:47 – 35:43)
Building a Civilian Life (35:43 – 37:39)
Reconnecting with Jan Scruggs (37:39 – 45:55)
The Three Soldiers Monument in Apalachicola (45:55 – 57:19)
Legacy and Lessons (57:19 – 1:02:26)
