James (Jim) Allen enlisted in the Canadian Armed
Forces while still in high school. He was a member of the Windsor
Regiment R.C.A.C. for twenty years and received many honours and
promotions. Mr. Allen was promoted to the highest non-commissioned
rank that of Chief Warrant Officer. In 1979 he was appointed Regimental
Sergeant-Major an appointment bestowed upon the ‘top soldier’ in
a regiment. Jim Allen was the first person of colour to be so honoured
by the Canadian Armed Forces. Other awards and distinctions include
the Canadian Decoration (CD) for
CWO James Allen C. D
RSM (Retired)
for twelve years good service, the NISOD Excellence
in Instructional Leadership Award from the University of Texas
at
Austin, and a Life Membership in Sertoma International.
Mr. Allen retired from the
Canadian Armed Forces in 1981 but continues his relationship with
his former Regiment as a member of the Past RSM’s Senate and
the Windsor Regiment Association. Jim Allen is currently a professor
at St. Clair College and is on the Board of Directors of the African
Canadian Community Centre of Windsor and Essex County.
