COLUMBIA, S.C. (SCDVA & Published Reports) - The South Carolina Department of Veterans' Affairs has learned of the passing of Retired Army Brigadier General James E. Mace. Family members confirmed his death on Tuesday, April 14, 2026. Mace leaves behind a decorated military career and personal legacy. From earning a Distinguished Service Cross while commanding his company in Vietnam, to being the longest serving Commandant of The Citadel, BG (Ret.) Mace made a lasting impact on the people and institutions he led.

Born in Hampton County South Carolina, BG (Ret.) Mace began his education at The Citadel, graduating in 1963. According to his daughter's memoir, people took notice of BG (Ret.) Mace even during his time as a cadet earning him a legendary reputation among his peers. This reputation would endure throughout his military career. 

After graduating from The Citadel, BG (Ret.) Mace commissioned into the Army and attended Ranger School before deploying to Vietnam. In early December of 1968, during a search and clear mission near Dong Xoai, BG (Ret.) Mace demonstrated "extraordinary heroism and devotion to duty" according to official accounts. He led his company through several dangerous encounters with enemy fire while rescuing American soldiers. The following year, Mace was presented with the Distinguished Service Cross for his bravery and leadership.

According to reporting by the Post and Courier, Mace is also credited with authoring the first field manual for Ranger operations. He was inducted in the Ranger Hall of Fame in 2007 for "demonstrating extraordinary valor and unparalleled leadership throughout his active-duty Army career" as well as elevating the quality of Ranger training.

Across his 28-year Army career, BG (Ret.) Mace also received the Distinguished Service Medal, the Silver Star, the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, and the Purple Heart.

After retiring from the Army, Mace continued to build his legacy. Bringing his career in the military full circle, he became Commandant at The Citadel in 1997. During this time, The Citadel was navigating major changes as they worked to accommodate the first female cadet enrolled just months prior to  Mace's arrival. 

BG (Ret.) Mace was integral in reforming The Citadel to make life easier for freshman who often faced harassment at the hands of upperclassman. His reforms included banning physical contact with first-year cadets, making sophomores equal in rank to freshman, and shortening the military orientation period. His work allowed women to integrate into the school, including one of his daughters, U.S. Representative, Nancy Mace, who became the school's first female graduate. Under his leadership, 95 women graduated from the cadet program.

In a 2005 resolution, Congress recognized BG (Ret.) Mace's vital role in guiding positive change and evolution as well as strengthening the quality of military training at the institution. BG (Ret.) Mace held his position as Commandant at the school for eight years before stepping down in 2005. 

BG (Ret.) Mace is survived by his wife, Anne, and their four children. SCDVA will publish memorial information for Mace once made available.

Photos in this article are credited to The Citadel and The Amry Ranger Hall of Fame.