SISTERS, OR, July 22, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ -- James E. Cunningham has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

A dedicated professional with five decades of expertise, Mr. Cunningham has been the Oregon state chairman for the Employer Support of the Guard & Reserve (ESGR) since 2022. In this role, he is responsible for developing and implementing policies and procedures that support relationships between part-time National Guard and Reserve members, their military units, and their employers. His work involves coordinating with various military branches and agencies to address operational challenges that affect part-time military members and their employers. In addition, Mr. Cunningham engages in strategic planning and operations management development that supports the Department of Defense's ESGR mission and objectives.

Mr. Cunningham served in the United States Air Force, and is a Vietnam combat veteran. From 1999 to 2006, he held the rank of Brigadier General in the United States Air Force, serving in the Oregon Air National Guard. His tenure was marked by strategic innovation, transforming several obsolete squadrons and facilitating the creation of a Special Operations squadron. His exceptional foresight and ability to match an individuals' skills with appropriate roles and responsibilities were key factors in creating new opportunities for unit members and enhanced his reputation for employing a proactive no-nonsense approach to, and passion for, leading rather than managing people.

Before his current position, Mr. Cunningham served as the Commander of the Oregon Air National Guard from 2000 to 2006. During this time, he was instrumental in establishing Oregon's first Special Tactics Squadron, the 125th, which plays a crucial role in executing the Air National Guard and national defense missions. His leadership extended to promoting diversity within the ranks, notably advancing Oregon's first African American officer to the rank of Brigadier General. He also mentored an Air National Guard officer to become the Adjutant General for Oregon and supported women in achieving high-ranking positions while balancing their personal commitments.

In addition to his military career, Mr. Cunningham was a pilot for Continental Airlines from 1987 to 1989, and a pilot for United Airlines from 1989, retiring as a Captain in 2004. His aviation expertise is further reflected in his creative pursuits, having authored three novels about aviation.

Mr. Cunningham's academic background includes a Master of Arts in management and human relations from Webster University and a Bachelor of Arts in political science with a focus on Constitutional Law and U.S. History from the University of California, Los Angeles. His education has been pivotal in honing his leadership and strategic planning skills and commitment to helping others reach their potential.

Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Cunningham continues his dedication to community service through actively participating in civic organizations. He serves on the board of directors for Central Oregon Veterans Outreach and is a past president of the Sisters Kiwanis Club. Additionally, he served on the board of advisors for the Oregon National Guard Youth Challenge Program, a nation-wide defense program, designed to facilitate educating at-risk high school students, giving them a second chance to academically excel.

In his personal life, Mr. Cunningham enjoys fly fishing and auto racing. He is committed to improving the treatment of veterans in the United States, particularly those who are homeless. He also collaborates with Mission 22, a national nonprofit that focuses on aiding military members and veterans suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. His goal is to position Mission 22 to receive the prestigious Freedom Award from the Department of Defense, underscoring his unwavering commitment to those who serve in both military and civilian capacities.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. Who's Who in America® remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the world. The suite of Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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