F/O J. H. Ballantyne of Toronto, Ontario, served in the United Kingdom, the Middle East and Malta with Nos. 222, 229, 213, 603, and 403 Squadrons.

James had a score of five enemy aircraft to his credit before being shot down by intense anti-aircraft fire near St. Aurore de I'Eure on 8th March, 1944, while flying with 403 Squadron.

One day in July, 1942, James became separated from his section but with courage and determination attacked three Me.109's, destroying one.
Some days later he was leading his section when the squadron attacked a formation of enemy heavy bombers. The bombers were successfully intercepted and pursued to within ten miles of the Sicilian coast.
On yet another occasion James attacked two Ju.88's and then while separated from his squadron was attacked by four enemy fighters. By skilful maneuvering and great tenacity, he fought off the hostile aircraft and returned to base and landed safely.