During a ceremony attended by Shields’ friends, family and co-workers, a howitzer and plaque were dedicated in his memory. VIEW ORIGINAL
PICATINNY ARSENAL, N.J. – Officials here unveiled a new memorial park in honor of James “Jim” Shields, a distinguished member of the U.S. Army Acquisition Corps, who passed away in September 2020.
During a ceremony attended by Shields’ friends, family and co-workers, a howitzer and plaque were dedicated in his memory.
During a ceremony attended by Shields’ friends, family and co-workers, a howitzer and plaque were dedicated in his memory. VIEW ORIGINAL
The inscription on the plaque reads: “Jim Shields was the Program Manager of the Joint Service Office for the Lightweight 155mm Howitzer (M777) from 2005-2009. Jim's inspired and exceptional leadership led the M777 program through material release, initial production, and fielding of the first howitzers. His contributions to the Army and Marine Corps will never be forgotten by his friends and colleagues. His legacy will long endure through the many Soldiers, Marines, and allied warfighters who have used and continue to use the M777 to defend democracy.”
Shields’ 35-year long career began at Picatinny Arsenal in 1983 as an engineer, where he quickly made his mark by contributing to the development of the U.S. Army’s first laser-guided 155mm artillery projectile, the M712 Copperhead.
Over the years, Shields rose through the ranks, showcasing exemplary leadership and expertise in various capacities within the acquisition corps. This ultimately led to his appointment as the Program Executive Officer for Ammunition, later renamed the Joint Program Executive Office Armaments & Ammunition.
Shields, who retired from federal service in 2017, was posthumously inducted into the Army Acquisition Hall of Fame in 2023.
“It's hard to believe it is almost five years since we lost Jim. I'm sure I speak for all of us that not a day goes by when something happens that makes me think of Jim,” said Chris Hatch, International Director (Weapons), Project Manager Combat Ammunition Systems, at the ceremony.
“This dedication is something a number of us have been discussing for a while, and after a few setbacks I am just happy we were able to make happen,” said Hatch. “I am honored to be making this presentation on behalf of those who served alongside Jim during his time at the Joint Program Office.”
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