James J. "JJ" Connell

By zthanson, 20 December, 2022
First Name
James
Middle Name
J.
Last Name
Connell
Birthdate
Hometown
Wilmington, Delaware
Rank
Lieutenant Commander
Service Branch
Navy
Date Captured
Date Repatriated
Pre Capture Image
Man in a decorated U.S. Navy suit and cap.
PreCapture Description

JJ Connell graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy on June 7, 1961, and was designated a Naval Aviator on June 18, 1962. After completing additional training, Connell was assigned as a flight instructor at NAAS Whiting Field, Florida, from December 1962 to November 1963, when he joined the Replacement Air Group at NAS Lemoore, California. He next served with Attack Squadron 55 aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ticonderoga (CVA-14), at NAS Lemoore, and aboard the USS Ranger (CVA-61), from August 1964 until he was forced to eject over North Vietnam on July 15, 1966.

Post Release Image
Black rectangle with text inside that says 'Died in Captivity, January 14, 1971.'
Post Release Description

Commander Connell died at the hands of the North Vietnamese on January 14, 1971. His remains were returned to the United States on March 6, 1974, and he was buried at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery in San Diego, California.

Honors, Citations, and Commendations
  • Navy Cross
  • Legion of Merit
  • Distinguished Flying Cross
  • Bronze Star
  • Prisoner of War Medal
Passed away before release
In Memorium