Staff Sergeant Guy James hails from Orange County, California, and currently serves as one of only two guitarists in the United States Air Force Band of the West, stationed in Texas. Previously, he spent eight years with the Band of the Pacific–Hawaii, performing across the Pacific region in ensembles spanning rock, jazz, and solo guitar. Over the course of his service, SSgt James has deployed twice, covering 17 countries and sharing music on stages around the world.
SSgt James enlisted in the Air Force in 2015 while studying music in college, earning his position through a highly competitive audition at Langley Air Force Base, Virginia. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Professional Guitar Studies through Berklee College of Music in 2020 and is now pursuing his Master’s in Music through Berklee Online. He sewed on the rank of Staff Sergeant in September 2024.
Beyond his military service, SSgt James is an active recording and performing artist. He has released two EPs of original music and regularly performs with local bands, continuing to expand his artistry both on and off the military stage
EDUCATION:
Orange Coast College 2009-2014
Fullerton City College 2014-2015
Berklee College of Music Online 2018-present
ASSIGNMENTS:
1. May 2015 - Dec 2016 Heritage of America Band, Langley AFB, VA
2. Dec 2016 – April 2025, United States Air Force Band of the Pacific, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, HI
3. April 2025- Present. United States Air Force Band of the West, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, TX
MAJOR AWARDS AND DECORATIONS:
AF Achievement Medal
Joint Meritorious Unit Award
AF Organizational Excellence Award
AF Good Conduct Medal
National Defense Service Medal
Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary medal
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon with Gold Border
AF Longevity Service
USAF NCO PME Graduate Ribbon
AF training Ribbon
OTHER ACHIEVMENTS:
Airman of the Quarter April-July 2018
Airman of the Quarter July-September 2018
EFFECTIVE DATES OF PROMOTION:
SrA July 2017
SSgt Sep 2024
current as of 19 May 26