James Darrell Gresham

My Life Story

I was born in Alabama but grew up in Jamaica Plain in the projects.  I have three brothers and one sister.  When we were young, one of my brothers was hit by a car.  That was really hard.

Spending time with my friends during school while growing up was a good memory, and my favorite subject in school was Science.  One of my brothers was in the Air Force, too.  I did two years of school at Roxbury Community College.

I joined the Army in 1982.  I enjoyed every bit of my life in the service…..  I remember everything about the service.  The friends I made was my favorite part.  I loved the camaraderie we shared.  There are so many stories I could tell you about; I remember everything. 

It was hard to find my way around after I left the service.  It was hard to be in the streets.  It was hard to live in Roxbury.  I remember the green line would go through every borough…..  I remember Park Street, and I will never forget Boston.  Boston is my home.

I’ve been through so much; the death of three presidents, Malcolm X, but I would never change any part of my life.  I would keep the good and the bad.

What’s most important to me now is life itself, and my family.

My advice to others is to always stick close with people who stick close with you.  If someone has your back, stick with them.  Never change the person who you grew up to be-be the person that you are and stay true to yourself.

Written by James Darrell Gresham

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