James Howard Olterman served in the U.S. Army for 1 year and 11 months. James served during the years of the Vietnam War and the Cold War.
Wildlife Officer James Olterman was killed when the Cessna 185 he was piloting on a fish-stocking mission to Hunts Lake crashed in the side of Hunts Peak near Salida, Colorado.
During the flight, the plane encountered strong winds and was forced to make a crash landing. As Officer Olterman attempted to land he purposely veered to the left to absorb the impact on the pilot's side, saving the life of a fellow employee. The injured passenger had to hike down the mountain from the crash scene.
Officer Olterman served as a senior terrestrial biologist in addition to being the area's wildlife law enforcement officer.
Officer Olterman was a US Army veteran of the Vietnam War veteran had served with the Colorado Department of Natural Resources - Wildlife Division for 30 years.
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In tribute
I served 1985 to 1993. You served too, before the badge - different uniform, same idea. You go where you are sent and you do not get to pick the call.
Wildlife Officer Olterman gave the Colorado Department of Natural Resources 30 years.
Thank you for your service to the Montrose community. Thank you for your service before it. Gone but never to be forgotten.
Rest easy, brother.
— S. Vincent Anthony, U.S. Army 1985-1993
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