email:  CHP@vfw12163.org and SVC@vfw12163.org

Born and raised in Ohio, USA, James Maughmer enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at just 17 years old after graduating high school early. During his military career he served with several Marine units including 3rd Battalion 2nd Marines, 3rd Battalion 3rd Marines, and 3rd Battalion 6th Marines. His service included deployments throughout the Mediterranean, Cuba, and the Western Pacific, earning awards including the Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal, Humanitarian Medal, Good Conduct Medals, Sea Service Ribbon with stars, and marksmanship awards. He also graduated from the US Marine Corps Staff Non-Commissioned Officers Academy as the youngest member of his class.

James settled permanently in Perth in 1984 after marrying his wife Fernanda, with whom he has four children and three grandchildren. Over the years he has dedicated much of his life to community service through Scouting, veterans’ support, Freemasonry, and community organisations.

A Scout Leader since 1994, James founded the Floreat Scout Group in 2013 and has helped establish and rebuild several Scout groups across Western Australia. His service to Scouting has been recognised with numerous state and national awards including the Black Swan Award, and Silver Emu.

James is an active member of several veterans and community organisations including the RSL, Marine Corps League, Navy League WA, and the American Legion. He is also a Legatee with Legacy WA, supporting veterans’ families and widows through welfare and community assistance.

In 2017 James founded the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 12163, the first and only VFW Post in Australia, providing support and advocacy for U.S. veterans living in Australia. In 2019 he helped establish VFW Post 12163 Incorporated WA, allowing family and community members to assist veterans and their families through volunteer and welfare work.

In 2023 James became the first member in Western Australia inducted into the VFW Honour Degree of the Cooties PT6 from Thailand and now including Australia.