James H. Auberry was born in the far western suburbs of Chicago, Illinois on February 28, 1927.  As did many young men during the Second World War, Jim lied about his age and enlisted in the U. S. Navy.  He was assigned to the U. S. S. West Virginia, beginning his period of active duty on March 8, 1944.  He served proudly in the 6th Division and reached the rank of Seaman 1st. Class when he was Honorably Discharged on May 5, 1946.  During his last year in the Navy, Jim married the love of his life, Vera Mae and returned to Illinois upon leaving the Service.
 
Back in Illinois, Jim and Vera raised both a daughter (Patricia) and a son (Gary).  Jim entered the printing industry and remained in that profession until his retirement in 1993.  Upon retirement, Jim and Vera moved to Port Hueneme, California to be closer to their daughter's family.
 
November of 2009 brought Jim and Vera's 64th wedding anniversary and both looked forward to reaching their 100th together!  Sadly however, after a long battle against cancer and heart disease, Jim passed away quietly February 27, 2010, one day shy of his 83rd. birthday.