1918-2016
James S. Louie served with the legendary Flying Tigers of World War II, the American Volunteer Group whose courage helped turn the tide in China before the United States formally entered the war. Born in Foshan, China in the Nan Hai Village, Louie’s service carried a dual weight. As a crew chief and mechanic, he kept the Tigers’ shark-nosed P-40 fighters battle-ready under grueling conditions: living out of makeshift airstrips, repairing aircraft through monsoon rains, and working by lantern light after nightly Japanese raids. Louie’s steady hands and calm discipline saved pilots’ lives every day. Though he never sought recognition, his behind-the-scenes heroism helped make the Flying Tigers a symbol of American grit and international partnership. His story reflects the quiet determination of a generation that served with skill, loyalty, and unshakeable resolve. In 2025, Louie was posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal.