James C. Motz was born February 12, 1917 to Joe and Jennie Motz, who were both immigrants from Bohemia. James, who was one of three sons, lived his entire life in Ashley in Elba Township. He enlisted in the United States Army on August 28, 1942 and was discharged on February 13, 1946. On April 7, 1948 he married his wife, Vlasta, in North Star, Michigan. They had one daughter. James farmed and worked for Oldsmobile of Lansing. He  was also a member of the Bannister ZCBJ Lodge. James passed away on July 1, 1975 and rests in North Star Cemetery. He is one of many Gratiot County men and women who served their county, state and nation during a time of war.