Sqdn Ldr JamesDuring World War Two Squadron Leader James was captured after being shot down from his RAF aircraft while on a mission in June 1940. Nazi soldiers imprisoned him but he embarked upon a career as a serial escapee.He was part of a daring escape from Stalag Luft III in Silesia, when 76 men tunnelled 365ft underground on March 24 1944.
Just three men evaded recapture and 50 escapees were shot on the orders of Hitler – an episode featured in the classic film.
Ludlow Mayor Councillor Martin Taylor-Smith said Saturday’s plaque-unveiling had been a time for reflection. “Jimmy was enormously popular in Ludlow. He was a stalwart at the Royal British Legion, in Mill Street.
“It was absolutely right that we created a lasting tribute to Jimmy because he was a bona fide hero. I’m of the generation that grew up on comic books like Commando and Victor. Jimmy was the sort of person whose heroic deeds featured in such titles.”
Prior to his death, the airman wrote about his war years in a book called Moonless Night. He also joked to friends that he was actually a terrible escapee, because he kept getting recaptured.
He received the Military Cross from King George VI who recognised his heroism along with that of other captives. The squadron leader died in the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital, aged 92, on January 18, 2008. He is buried in Ludlow cemetery.