CONGRESSMAN ANDY KIM
“Mr. Cotten represented the best of America. His service in uniform and in our community is a reminder that we stand on the shoulders of giants, and because of the sacrifice of great New Jerseyans like Mr. Cotten, we can see a better future ahead. My thoughts are with his wife and family. I hope they take some comfort that his memory will never be forgotten.”
ASSEMBLYWOMAN CAROL MURPHY
“Our community lost a truly great American hero with the recent passing of James Cotten. I was so honored to meet Mr. Cotten at a Memorial Day event in Burlington County, we had a wonderful conversation about his service, love of country and family. He was quite inspiring and I’m sad that we have lost a true patriot, and my sincerest heartfelt condolences go out to his family, our community and our country.”
SENATE MILITARY AND VETERANS AFFAIRS COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN VIN GOPAL
“James Cotten was an American hero who represented all that was good and decent in our country. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time. His contributions will continue to have an impact on generations to come.”
CONGRESSMAN JOSH GOTTHEIMER
“Chief Master Sergeant Cotten lived a remarkable life and his service to our country is an example to us all. He stepped up to serve our country, not for glory or fame, but to protect our democracy and freedoms. It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to such an exemplary individual, but I know his legacy will live on in all of us.”
ASSEMBLYMAN BRIAN BERGEN
“James Cotten was a true American hero. His time with the Tuskegee Airmen was the foundation from which he built an unparalleled career in service to our nation. He is someone we should all try and emulate in some way. Our country and the world are better places because of him.”
GOVERNOR PHIL MURPHY
“James Cotten, like his fellow Tuskegee Airmen, is an American patriot who broke barriers to serve our nation in one of our greatest hours of need. With 21 years of distinguished service in the U.S. Air Force, James was a trailblazer and his contributions will forever be etched in our state and nation’s history. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time.”
ASSEMBLYMAN RYAN PETERS
“People like James Cotten are why you get into the service. He spent his entire life fighting for his nation, even at times when his nation didn’t deserve him. That type of selflessness drives you to want to be a part of something bigger. He was a true American hero and will be missed.”
CONGRESSMAN AND FORMER HOUSE VETERANS AFFAIRS COMMITTEE CHAIRMAN CHRISTOPHER SMITH
“CMSgt (Ret) James Cotten, epitomizes the commitment, grit and patriotism of the ‘greatest generation.’ Having served his country, for more than 65 years, 21 in the Air Force and then as a civilian at the Joint Base, his life’s work helped ensure that future generations of Americans would be protected and free. A member of the Tuskegee Airmen, he was in a class of groundbreaking leaders and our Nation will be forever grateful to him and his unit for their service and the sacrifices they made for the United States of America.”
ASSEMBLY SPEAKER CRAIG COUGHLIN
“James Cotten epitomized true American heroism. We all owe him our eternal gratitude for his faithful and brave service to his country. My prayers go out to the entire Cotten family and to the countless friends whose lives were made better by James. May he rest in peace.”
STATE SENATOR TROY SINGLETON
“I didn’t know Mr Cotten personally but his life’s story is an inspiration to all of us who strive to make a difference and to be give of themselves to make life better for others. RIP.”
U.S. SENATOR CORY BOOKER
“James Cotten represented the best of New Jersey and our country. He not only defended this nation, but challenged it to live up to its highest ideals. Please join me in expressing gratitude for his service and sending our condolences to his loved ones.”
“Mr. Cotten dedicated a career to protecting our nation from our enemies while upholding the promise that the freedoms and rights he defended applied to all Americans. As the members of the Greatest Generation ease into the pages of history, I am grateful we will always have Mr. Cotten’s example to inspire future generations.”
CONGRESSMAN DONALD NORCROSS
“Tuskegee Airman James Cotten was an American hero. His selfless service and sacrifice has helped shape our nation and will continue to have an impact for generations to come. He dedicated his entire life to his beloved family and country. My heart is with his family and loved ones.”
Click here to read the obituary of James A. Cotten.
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