CDR Jim 'Wizard' Ozbirn USNR

After graduating from San Diego State University in 1965, CDR Jim Ozbirn reported for Aviation Officer Candidate (AOC) school in Pensacola, Florida on 3 August 1965. After receiving his wings in March 1967, he reported to the F-8 training squadron at Miramar, CA. He was then assigned to fly the RF-8G photo reconnaissance Crusader, also based at NAS Miramar. While flying the RF-8, he made cruises aboard the USS Coral Sea (Vietnam 1968-69), USS FD Roosevelt (Mediterranean 1970), and two aboard the USS JF Kennedy (North Atlantic 1977 and Mediterranean 1978). On the last two cruises, CDR Ozbirn was the detachment Officer in Charge (OINC). Altogether, CDR Ozbirn flew all the different models of the F-8/RF-8, accumulating over 2000 hours. In 1974 and 1975, CDR Ozbirn also flew the F-4 Phantom.

CDR Ozbirn's tours of duty included: VFP-63, NAS Miramar; VF-301, NAS Miramar; VFP-63, NAS Miramar; VFP-206/306, NAF Andrews AFB; Staff NAF Andrews; OP-05R Pentagon; OP-05 COMNAVAIRPAC, NAS North Island. During his time at Andrews, he also received his Master’s Degree in Personnel Administration from Central Michigan University.

After retiring from the Navy in November 1986, CDR Ozbirn was hired by American Airlines. He initially flew as flight engineer on the 727 and the DC-10. He then upgraded to First Officer on the S-80 and then the 757/767. He held that position for almost nine years before upgrading to Captain on the S-80. CDR Ozbirn then flew as a Captain for four years on the S-80/S-90 before retiring for good on February 2002.

CDR Ozbirn's interests in retirement include: golf, woodworking, beer making, garden railroading, his Shelby Cobra and, of course, his five grandkids.