James P. Jackson, Vietnam vet, chef

People who knew James P. Jackson Jr. called him a hero in both war and peace.

He was a decorated veteran of two tours in Vietnam, and when he returned to Philadelphia he pitched in to serve his community.

James Jackson, who attained the rank of sergeant major during his service career, which also included assignments in Korea and Germany, died Jan. 12. He was 68 and lived in Southwest Philadelphia.

Jack, as he was called, was a popular chef at the Sisters of Mercy McCauley Convent, in Merion, until his retirement in 2006.

He was born in Philadelphia to James P. Jackson and Elizabeth Heath. He graduated from Benjamin Franklin High School.

He grew up in South Philadelphia and had fond memories of hanging out with his buddies at 3rd and South streets.

Jack entered the Army in 1962 and, after training, was sent to Vietnam in '68.

He saw action with the 9th Infantry Division in the Tet Offensive, and other action with the 24th Field Artillery.

He returned to the States and served as a drill instructor at Fort Knox, Ky., before going back to Vietnam as a member of the 2nd Field Force attached to the Saigon Support Command.

Among his decorations were the Bronze Star and the Legion of Merit.

He was inducted into the Order of Saint Barbara, an honorary society of the field artillery.

After the military, Jack attended the Restaurant School in Philadelphia and became a cook.

Jack was a big hero to the 6100 block of Ellsworth Street, which he served as block captain for many years.

Among his honors was the Community Beautification Award of the Philadelphia Chapter of the Top Ladies of Distinction.

He also was honored by the Philadelphia More Beautiful Committee. He served as a Democratic committeeman.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra Cross Jackson; three sons, Quintin Burke, James P. Jackson III and Jerry P. Jackson; two daughters, June P. Clark-Jackson and Myeisa Campbell; his stepmother, Phyllis Jackson; a brother, Lonnie Cadogan; and 16 grandchildren.

Services: Were Saturday. Burial was in Fernwood Cemetery. *