Arkansas State University

Major General James E. Simmons played football with the Indians from 1970-72 in the defensive secondary and impressed the coaching staff with his leadership skills and talent. He came to ASU after a stellar career at Newport High School.

After graduating from Arkansas State in 1974, Simmons was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant of Armor. He went on to receive a degree from the United States Army Command and General Staff College before earning his masters degree in Military Science. He also attended other military schools and was selected as the Deputy Commanding General for III Corps and Fort Hood, Texas, in 2003.

A highly decorated officer, Simmons has received the Distinguished Service Medal, the Department of Defense Superior Service Medal, the Legion of Merit, the Army Achievement Medal, the National Defense Medal with two Bronze Stars, and others. He was also awarded the Order of National Security Merit by the Republic of Korea for his four years of distinguished service in that country. Simmons has visited Jonesboro on occasion to speak to ASU's football team.