James L. McCormick II

Executive bio

James L. McCormick II is a retired U.S. Army Captain (Armor), executive leader, author, and speaker whose perspective is shaped by 22 years of military service, including 16 years enlisted before commissioning. A Silver Star recipient, he served in Operation Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom and commanded the 518th Combat Gun Truck Company during operations in Iraq. His military decorations also include three Bronze Stars for Valor, three Purple Hearts, the Combat Action Badge, and two Meritorious Service Medals.

Today, McCormick serves as Executive Director, Government Affairs, Vietnam Veterans of America. His executive experience includes service as National Commander of the Military Order of the Purple Heart (2021–2022), President/CEO of the Point Pleasant River Museum & Lakin Ray Cook Learning Center Foundation, and National Veterans Advocacy Director for Advocates, Inc. He brings audiences a grounded perspective on leadership, strategy, advocacy, resilience, and the responsibilities of continuing service.

McCormick is the author of Battle Tested Faith and Steel in the Spine, founder of The Veteran Channel on Roku, and host of Digging History and Honoring the Sacrifice. His recognitions include the Congressional Medal of Honor Society Citizens Service Before Self Award, the Jefferson Award, and the Distinguished West Virginian Award.