James Chastain Fokes Jr.

James Chastain Fokes Jr. was born on February 22, 1928, in Savannah, Chatham County, Georgia. His parents were James Chastain Fokes (1894-1970) and Lillian Huldah Sawyer (1893-1965). He had two sisters, Martha Elizabeth Fokes (1920-1995) and Eleanor Virginia Fokes (1922-2016). During their childhood, the family resided in Savannah Beach, Chatham, Georgia. However, James relocated to Ocala, Marion, Florida, United States in 1940. He attended and graduated from Ocala High School in Ocala, Florida, USA. Following his high school education, James pursued further studies at the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida, USA. At the age of 18, James registered for the draft on February 26, 1946, in Marion, Florida. At that time, he was a student at the University of Florida. Subsequently, on May 29, 1946, James enlisted in the United States Army at Ft Mcpherson in Atlanta, Georgia. He served as a Private in the Regular Army, which encompassed officers, nurses, warrant officers, and enlisted men. His military service concluded with an honorable discharge on October 22, 1947. While attending the University of Florida, James became a member of the Delta Sigma Phi Fraternity. In 1950, he held the position of fraternity president, showcasing his involvement and leadership within the organization.