James L. Layton was elected Quartermaster of Buster Deo Post 4067, of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. on April 12, 2022, at the regular business meeting in Malta, Montana. 

James enlisted in the United States Army Reserve in 1999 and continues to serve. He earned his VFW eligibility by serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom between 2005 and 2006. In recognition of his service he has received the Army Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster, Army Achievement Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Army Good Conduct Medal, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal with two oak leaf clusters, Iraq Campaign Medal with one campaign star, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, as well as numerous other awards.

He joined the VFW in 2006 as a member at large, later transferring to Post 4067 in Malta, Montana, where he maintains his Gold Legacy Life membership. He has served at Post, District, and Department levels as Post Commander, District 5 Commander, and Department Voice of Democracy Chairman. James is currently a member of the Department Transition Committee and Budget Committee.  On the national level, he served as a member of the National By-Laws Committee and as a member of the National General Resolutions Committee. Additionally, he was appointed National Aide-De-Camp for 2017-18.  James is a two-time All-State Post Commander and two-time All-American Post Commander leading his post to their first All-American achievement for 2017-18 and again in 2018-19.

James currently works for the Department of Homeland Security. He is a member of the American Legion, Sons of the American Legion, and Boy Scouts of America. He enjoys being involved with his local community in Malta, Montana, where he currently resides.