Twin brother of Dorothy Bear, both orphans after parents died. Twins moved to Golden as children and raised by Hamlin family. James later returned to Denver with aunt Lula M. Whitlock and graduated from a Denver high school. Entered service in 1942 and served in 527th Bomber Squadron, 379th Bomber Group, Heavy in radar division in England. Nephew of Mrs. Ira Taylor and Mrs. H.S. Hamlin.