James R. Norton, MSgt, USAF (Retired)
September 13, 1953 – March 2, 2021

It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of Pararescueman

MSgt James R. Norton Date of birth/death: Born in Cincinnati, OH, on September 13, 1953; passed in Paducah KY, on March 2, 2021.

Funeral date pending with plans to bury Jim in September along Pararescue Memorial Parkway in Miami Memorial Park, Covington, OH.

Years of service as a PJ: 18 years, 6 months (per the DD214) Awards and Decorations (per DD214):

Meritorious Service Medal with 4 devices,

Air Force Commendation Medal with 3 devices,

Air Force Achievement Medal,

Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with 3 devices,

Coast Guard Unit Commendation,

Combat Readiness Medal with 1 device.

PJ Career Assignments (per DD214): Hickam AFB, HI; Holman AFB, NM; back to Hickam AFB, HI; RAF Woodbridge, UK; Kirtland AFB, NM; Osan AB, Korea; and back to Kirtland AFB, NM, where he retired.

Post PJ Career: Upon retiring from the Air Force, Jim went to school for Electrical Engineering. He worked for Sandia National Laboratory in Albuquerque,

NM, where he designed and field-tested proprietary power supplies for conventional and nuclear weapons.

Name and address for condolences: Jim’s Sister, Kathy Norton, 11963 Spring Creek Dr., Huntley, IL 60142

Information to share: Jim mostly enjoyed shooting and collecting firearms. He was very proud of the arsenal of handguns and long guns he amassed over the years. He raised and showed AKC registered Chow dogs that earned Champaign Dog Excellent (CDX) awards through AKC. Jim was very computer savvy and enjoyed motorcycle riding. He also enjoyed hiking, climbing and SCUBA diving.

Jim loved Pararescue. It was the happiest time of his life, so I am planning to bury him along Pararescue Memorial Parkway in Miami Memorial Park, Covington, OH, with his Pararescuemen Brothers, SSgt Bill Pitsenbarger and MSgt Bill Eby.

Immediate family: Kathy Norton, Jim’s sister (only surviving relative) and a very close family friend, Rich Kozio.

Some of us did not know Jim or just met him in passing with a hand shake. Those that worked with and knew him hold him in high regard as a warrior PJ, who now joins the squadron of PJ Rescue Angels who have made their final jump.

When one of our PJ brothers passes he takes a piece of our hearts with him. It would be immensely appreciated if those who have stories would contact Kathy by getting in touch with PJ brother Jim Morris @920-284-4879 who has been very instrumental in assisting the family and preparing MSgt Jim Norton’s interment and BIO.

John Pighini Vice President, PJ Assn.