Jim Russell has served as Post 12213 Chaplain and District 17 Chaplain.

Jim served in the U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Army Active Duty, Reserves, and Indiana National Guard. In 2013, he earned his VFW eligibility by serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. In recognition of his service, he received the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (three), Army Commendation Medal (six), Army Achievement Medal, and Good Conduct Medal, among many others.

He joined the VFW in Post 12213 in Magnolia, Texas, holding a Life membership. 

Jim currently holds Board Certification with the National Association of Veteran Affairs Chaplains, National Endorsement for Chaplaincy, and Law Enforcement Chaplaincy, and national and international recognition for his work in Suicide Intervention and Moral Injury.