James Haas is a 4-year veteran of the United States Air Force enlisting in 1969.   While serving in the US Air Force he obtained the rank of E-4 and served as a Security Police Specialist. He’s a Viet Nam Veteran who served at DaNang Air Base from 1971 – 1972 with the 366^th Security Police Force.  He also served in Germany and state side with the 4784^th Tactical Air Wing Security Police Force.   Jim was awarded National Defense Medal, Air Force Good Conduct Medal, RVN Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with two battle stars, Vietnam Gallantry Cross, NYS Medal for Merit, and NYS Conspicuous Service Star.

Jim joined the Veterans of Foreign Wars in 1973. He was a member of the Raymond A. Ranellucci Jr. Post #2684, Rensselaer, NY for 26 years serving as Commander for 11 years. In 1999 he transferred to the Robert L. Weininger Memorial Post #8692, Colonie, NY where he presently serves as Quarter Master. He served as Commander for 8 years, Sr. Vice Commander 3 years, Jr. Vice Commander 2 Years, and Service Officer 2 Years.  Jim served as Albany County Council Commander for 2 years and Past Council Sr. Vice Commander. In District 3, he held the office of Sr. Vice Commander in 2016-2017 and served as District 3 commander 2017-2018. Jim is presently Quartermaster for District 3. He achieved Post Allstate Team in 2015, 2016, and 2017 and achieved All American Post in 2019.  Jim served as Department of New York Inspector for two terms and as a Department of New York Audit team member for two terms. He served as administrative chairman in assisting posts that were in disarray conditions.  Jim’s great accomplishment is taking one post from borderline of loosing its charter to becoming an All-American Post in 19 months. 

Jim’s community service includes serving as Chairman of the Colonie Veterans Memorial project. He served on the committee "Keys to Progress” Cars for Vets partnering with the local Progressive Insurance Company. He is member of the American Legion Post #1256 of Colonie NY and a Member of the DAV.  Jim worked in the Confection Industry for 23 years retiring as Vice President of Sales from The Supreme Chocolatier Company of Staten Island NY.  He attended Barber School achieving a NYS Master Barber license. Worked as a Barber for 14 years. Jim has been married to Kathy Haas for 52 years with three children and five grandchildren.  His dedication and focus is on representing the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Remaining committed to the mission of the VFW by Assisting and supporting all Veterans.