When the Twin Towers fell on September 11, 2001, James Bernsen was working as a press secretary. As chaos engulfed the nation, he made a decision that would redirect the course of his life.
“The staff was evacuated, but I was kept on because I sent out the press releases by fax,” he recalled. “I realized, this is my generation’s challenge. So I decided to join the military.”
From Castroville to Combat Zones
Lt. Commander James Bernsen, a Castroville native, answered the call to service by becoming a Navy Reserve intelligence officer, ultimately deploying to some of the most dangerous regions in the world. His journey from small-town Texas to the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan represents a story of service that Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham recently highlighted through the Voices of Veterans oral history program.
Bernsen’s military career began in the aftermath of 9/11, but it wasn’t until 2007-2008 that he found himself on active duty in Iraq, using his intelligence training in the midst of the surge strategy. Nearly a decade later, in 2017-2018, he would again deploy, this time to Afghanistan as the longest war in American history continued to grind on.
What drives someone to leave civilian life behind for the uncertainties of war?
For Bernsen, the transition from press secretary to intelligence officer wasn’t as dramatic as it might seem. Both roles require careful analysis of information, strategic thinking, and clear communication under pressure. His background in reporting and research proved valuable in his military career, where intelligence gathering and assessment were paramount.
A Citizen-Sailor’s Contributions
During his service, Bernsen contributed to critical operations not only in Iraq and Afghanistan but also aboard the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76), one of America’s nuclear-powered aircraft carriers. His deployments spanned multiple theaters of operation, including South Korea, showcasing the global reach required of today’s military professionals.
The Navy has recognized Bernsen’s professionalism and contributions, particularly his ability to balance reserve duties with civilian pursuits. This “citizen-sailor” model represents a critical component of America’s military readiness, with reservists bringing valuable skills from their civilian careers into military service.
Bernsen’s dual identity as both warrior and scholar has continued into his post-deployment life. He has channeled his experiences and historical interests into writing, including an award-winning book about Texas history. His career now encompasses public relations, research, and writing – skills honed both in newsrooms and military intelligence briefings.
Beyond the Uniform
The story of Lt. Commander Bernsen reflects a broader narrative about military service in the post-9/11 era. While less than one percent of Americans serve in the armed forces today, their experiences shape not only their own lives but often their communities upon return.
For Bernsen, the connection to his Texas roots remains strong. His participation in the Voices of Veterans program helps preserve the experiences of those who served, creating an oral history archive for future generations. The Castroville native has maintained his ties to Texas even while serving around the globe.
Still, the transition between military and civilian worlds isn’t always seamless. Veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan often return to a society with limited understanding of their experiences or the conflicts in which they served. Through his writing and public engagement, Bernsen helps bridge that gap, providing context and perspective on America’s recent military engagements.
As the U.S. continues to navigate its role in global security, stories like Bernsen’s remind us that behind every deployment are individuals who answered a call – sometimes sparked by a single, world-changing moment like 9/11 – and whose lives were forever altered by that decision.
