James Morgan “Jimmy” Elliott was born on August 28, 1922 in Phillipsburg Township, Phillips County, Kansas. He was the son of Robert C. Elliott and Leora Gibson Elliott. James was a graduate of Monmouth high school, and was employed by the Oregon News company in Portland at the time of his induction into the service in May, 1942. He trained at Lowry Field, Colo., and at Gowen Field, Boise, Idaho, and received his wings at Wendover Field, Utah.

James served in the 341st Bomb Squadron, 97th Bomb Group as a Staff Sergeant during World War II. Tail Gunner of the B-17 #42-3147 "Homesick Angel", he was Killed in Action on November 16, 1943 when their plane was shot down during a bombing raid over Istres, France. The wreck of their B-17 was discovered when the lake was dried up in the 60's. SSGT Elliott is now buried in the Fairview Cemetery, Phillipsburg, Phillips County, Kansas, USA.