LINCOLN, ND, November 11, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- James H. Nelson has been recognized for achievement in government and public service.

Mr. Nelson's decades-long career in government and public service is marked by a steadfast commitment to veterans and their families, as well as his diverse professional background. Since 2015, he has served as a legislative director for North Dakota Veterans Affairs, where his work has centered on advocacy and recognition for those who served in the armed forces and their loved ones. He has played a key role in the success of initiatives such as the Bridges for the Fallen program, which names bridges throughout North Dakota in honor of service members who were killed in action. Through this effort, 23 bridges have been named, ensuring that the sacrifices of these individuals are publicly remembered.

Though his journey counts many milestones, Mr. Nelson is particularly proud of his dedication to honoring Gold Star families. In 2013, he contacted the relative of a fallen service member from the Vietnam War, discovering that he was the first person to mention her son's name since his burial in 1966; this poignant moment reinforced his resolve to ensure that both the heroes and their families are never forgotten. His dedication and research increased the number of recognized North Dakota service members who were killed in action during Vietnam from 198 to 228 and led to nearly 500 family members being acknowledged as Gold Star members.

Before he joined North Dakota Veterans Affairs, Mr. Nelson spent a decade with United Parcel Service (UPS) from 2003 to 2013, ultimately retiring due to health reasons after 10 successful years with the company. Prior to that, he worked in law enforcement for several years following his discharge from military service; he describes himself as becoming a jack of all trades, reflecting the broad range of responsibilities he took on during this period.

Mr. Nelson began his professional journey with military service in the United States Navy from 1967 to 1971 during the Vietnam War. This foundational experience instilled in him the values of discipline and service and shaped his lifelong dedication to supporting his fellow veterans and their families.

Hailing from an equally accomplished academic background, Mr. Nelson earned a bachelor's degree in secondary education with minors in social science and history in 1990 as well as a master's degree in criminal justice in 1993, both from Minot State University.

Determined to make an impact outside the classroom as well, Mr. Nelson was an active participant in campus life, serving as president of the History Club, a student senator and a member of the Native American Cultural Awareness Club. As an older graduate student among his peers, he brought a unique perspective and leadership to each of these roles. His academic achievements at Minot State saw him recognized through several honors, including a citation of excellence for teacher assistance from the Department of Criminal Justice and a graduate citation of excellence upon completion of his master's degree. He also received four resident housing director citations for exceptional leadership and was named an Outstanding Ambassador.

Reflecting on his storied journey to date, Mr. Nelson attributes his success to his military training, faith and steadfast perseverance. His involvement with American Veterans (AMVETS) began after he joined its local chapter in Bismarck, North Dakota, and served as chaplain. As commander of the post, he participated in legislative reviews through the Coordinating Council of North Dakota Veterans Affairs and spearheaded efforts to recognize Vietnam veterans and their families through research and advocacy. He is also an active member of Vietnam Veterans of America.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to his community, country and the State of North Dakota, Mr. Nelson was named AMVET of the Year by the North Dakota Department of AMVETS three times and received the Commander Award for Dedicated Service to Veterans in 2017. He was also honored with letters of appreciation from United States Senator Heidi Heitkamp for his work with veterans and Gold Star families over three consecutive years beginning in 2015, along with two letters of recognition from the Governor of North Dakota for dedicated service and leadership on behalf of veterans earlier in his career.

Furthermore, Mr. Nelson was presented with the President of the United States Outstanding Community Achievement of Vietnam Veterans Award by President Jimmy Carter in 1979 and received Outstanding Young Law Enforcement Officer recognition by Turtle Lake Jaycees in 1978. His work has also been covered in the media; notably, his efforts with the Bridges for the Fallen program were highlighted in an article published by The Bismarck Tribune in 2025.

On a personal level, Mr. Nelson is happily married and a proud father of two children as well as two stepchildren. His family includes six grandchildren — one currently participates in the United States Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) while another is on the verge of graduating from high school — and five great-grandchildren whose milestones also bring him great joy.

Outside of his work with North Dakota Veterans Affairs, Mr. Nelson enjoys hobbies like solving puzzles, watching documentaries — especially those broadcast on Prairie Public Television — and woodworking when possible. Despite recognizing that he is slowing down with age, he remains committed to continuing his work in supporting veterans and their families for as long as he is needed.

Throughout every stage of his life and career, from military service through law enforcement, corporate employment and advocacy within North Dakota Veterans Affairs, Mr. Nelson has demonstrated a remarkable dedication to public service, community engagement and remembrance.

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