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U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Tulsa District News

Employee Spotlight: Capt. James Davenport

Sallisaw Navigation Project Office
Published Dec. 27, 2012
Capt. James Davenport

Capt. James Davenport

Capt. James Davenport, officer in the 45th Oklahoma National Guard, is currently working for the Corps of Engineers out of the Sallisaw Navigation Project Office. He came to the Corps through the Community Based Warrior Transition Unit program, or the CBWTU, more commonly known as the Wounded Warrior Program.

“This program allows for reserve national guard Soldiers to get medical treatment while at home with their families,” said Davenport. “It’s really an excellent program.”

The CBWTU participants continue to receive pay from the military while working at a federal agency near their homes. That is how Davenport landed at the navigation office where he conducts administrative support duties. He will remain at that office until he completes his time in the program and transitions back to reserve Soldier status. Davenport, currently on active duty after recently being redeployed from Afghanistan, has been in the military for 27 years.

“I’ve just always liked the military,” said Davenport. “I wanted to see if it would be a good career choice for me. Once I got into it, I enjoyed the work and the camaraderie with people. I appreciated all the things the military could do for me and all the intangible things like leadership training and self-discipline.”

A private, yet warm individual, Davenport exudes poise and efficiency, a product of all his years of service. His connection with the military began as a young boy’s fascination that led him down the path he follows still today.

“The two biggest things the military has taught me are probably the ability to mitigate risks and the discipline and motivation to accomplish tasks,” said Davenport. “Some people will procrastinate, but the military teaches you when you get something: do it, do it now, and get it done.”

When Davenport isn’t getting things done at work, he spends time with his wife and three kids or engaging in hobbies like reading, gardening and training his dogs. 

“I have a Rottweiler I am working with now on some Schultz hound work,” said Davenport. “It’s practical working dog training.”

Practical is a good way to describe Davenport, who self-describes as boring but clearly has led an interesting life.

“I’m not that exciting,” he says. “Pretty complicated, like most people, but not that exciting.”

Davenport’s practical and positive personality is something always carried with him. It seems to be sewn into the camouflage on his army uniform, but it is something we all can see.

Quick Facts:
Capt. James Davenport
Hometown: Sallisaw, Okla.
Years in Army: 27
Kids: 3
Favorite Food: Steak
Favorite Movie: It’s a Wonderful Life
Hobbies: Reading, Gardening, Firearms