Proud to Be Ashamed

This writing started out as a record for future generations inquisitees regarding heritage but quickly grew into a blueprint on reaching one's potential and not letting societies' placement prevent each of us from reaching any level and accomplishments we wish to obtain. This story is about my life and bursting through the shackles in place by others and proving that America's limitations are non-existent when faced by persistence. Starting as a young boy raised in tenant houses and working the cotton fields of Oklahoma, through leaving home and joining the Merchant Marines, to enlisting in the Marine Corp and Vietnam, and ultimately building the family I always wanted and reaching financial independence. It covers the trials and obstacles overcome with dedicated focus to create several companies that are still thriving today.

Jimmy Russell survived the cotton fields of Oklahoma and migrated to the Merchant Marines, visiting 26 countries and accomplishing officer status of Oiler, Fireman, and Watertender issued by the US Coast Guard. He then joined the Marine Corps, volunteering for Vietnam. Mr. Russell founded and has served on the Boards of many successful companies, serving on four at present, one being the Virginia Modular and Manufactured Housing Association, where he recently served as Chairman. He also served on the Board of Governors with the national association of MHI. His work with VAMMHAs Scholarship Fund has prompted the association to name the annual scholarship awards in his honor. Jimmy started companies including electrical distributorship, a manufactured housing community of 250 units, a retail building entity, and a mortgage banking business. He currently is semi-retired and enjoying his family, including his wife of 49 years, four children, ten grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.