James Edward Altum was born in Rockwood, Tennessee, the son of Homer C. Altum and Clara Ann Cline.
Private First Class Altum was a member of the 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division. He was killed in action while fighting the enemy in South Korea.
The Knoxville Journal, August 17, 1950
Pfc. James Edward Altum, 23, has been missing in action in Korea since July 25, according to word received by his mother, Mrs. Clara Altum of Rockwood. Private Altum, who has been in service three years, is a member of the Fifth Cavalry Regiment. He is a brother of Steve Altum of Rockwood, and of Mrs. Alma Poland of Oak Ridge, Mrs. Irene Hampton, Maryville and Mrs. Nina Gesler of Alexandria, Va.
- Rank: Private First Class
- Date of birth: 23 October 1927
- Date of death: 25 July 1950
- County: Roane
- Hometown: Rockwood
- Service Branch: Army
- Division/Assignment: 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Cavalry Division
- Conflict: Korean War
- Awards: Purple Heart, Combat Infantrymans Badge, Korean Service Medal, United Nations Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Republic of Korea War Service Medal
- Burial/Memorial Location: Oak Grove Cemetery, Rockwood, TN
- Location In Memorial: Pillar XXI, Middle Panel
- Contact us to sponsor James E. Altum
Image Gallery
Click a thumbnail below to view at full size.
