Ople only had a 4th grade education. He worked in the coal mines (Mill Creek Coal & Coke Co. in Mayberry, W. V. from 1933 - 1941). He entered into the Army in Jun 1941, had his training, got out and was recalled in Mar 1942. He served with I/130 as a cook and returned home in Nov 1945.

While serving with the 33rd he earned the American Theater Ribbon, the Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon w/ 2 bronze stars (for New Guinea and Luzon), Good Conduct Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal.

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Ople James, left and Lloyd Helm. Photo: Jim Price.

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