Veterans' Advocacy Leader & Former Chicago Alderman; Bronze Star Recipient & Vietnam War Marine Veteran; Director of Veterans Affairs for City of Chicago
James Balcer Biography
James A. Balcer is a combat veteran, former Chicago alderman, and advocate for veterans' rights whose career is marked by service and civic engagement. As the oldest of six children, Balcer overcame poverty and other challenges, which shaped his path as a Marine veteran, elected official, and community leader. He served in the Vietnam War, where he was wounded on three occasions and received the Bronze Star with Combat V Device. Upon returning home, Balcer recognized the difficulties veterans faced, including harassment and barriers to employment and essential services.
Balcer's participation in the Vietnam Veterans Welcome Home Parade sparked his interest in public service. After earning two associate degrees and a bachelor's degree, he pursued a career in veterans' advocacy. He served as Director of Veterans Affairs for the City of Chicago before being appointed alderman of the 11th Ward. In this role, Balcer represented approximately 50,000 residents and served on committees including Budget and Government Operations; Energy, Environmental Protection and Public Utilities; Finance; Human Relations; Police and Fire; and Transportation and Public Way.
Throughout his tenure, Balcer addressed issues such as government purchasing, financial policy, environmental protection, and community development. His primary focus remained on veterans' and military affairs, where he worked to improve housing, employment, public accommodation, and credit access for veterans. Balcer also took legal action to combat discrimination against veterans and worked to raise public awareness through media engagement.
For 17 years, Balcer was recognized as a leading voice for veterans' issues in the City Council. As a Vietnam War veteran and Marine, he concluded each City Council speech with the phrase "Semper fidelis." Balcer has received recognition from the Mayor of Chicago, the U.S. Small Business Association, and the Department of Defense. Upon leaving the Council, he spoke openly about his decision to seek treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder related to his military service, highlighting the importance of mental health awareness among veterans.
Balcer continues to serve as a public speaker, addressing topics such as veterans' advocacy, military support, patriotism, and community engagement. He participates in veterans' events and community gatherings and produces content on social media platforms, focusing on education and awareness for military and veterans' issues.
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James Balcer Videos
James Balcer and Jeffery Gray Part 2 of 2
Today I sat down with my friend Jeffery Grey and we talked about the Chicago Navy memorial at Navy Pier.
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What are the speaker fees for James Balcer
Speaking fees for James Balcer, or any other speakers and celebrities, are determined based on a number of factors and may change without notice. The estimated fees to book James Balcer are under $10,000 for live events and under $10,000 for virtual events. For the most current speaking fee to hire James Balcer, click the Check Availability button above and complete the form on this page, or call our office at 1.800.698.2536 to speak directly with an experienced booking agent. -
What topics does James Balcer speak about?
James Balcer is a keynote speaker and industry expert whose speaking topics include Government, Human Resources, Military, Overcoming Adversity, Peak Performance, Teamwork & Teambuilding, Veterans -
Where does James Balcer travel from?
James Balcer generally travels from Chicago, IL, USA, but can be booked for private corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. For more details, please contact an AAE Booking agent. -
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James Balcer is a keynote speaker and industry expert who speaks on a wide range of topics. The estimated speaking fee range to book James Balcer for your event is available upon request. James Balcer generally travels from Chicago, IL, USA and can be booked for (private) corporate events, personal appearances, keynote speeches, or other performances. Similar motivational celebrity speakers are Rocky Bleier, Dave Carey, Clebe McClary, Pearce Cucchissi and Larry Walsh. Contact All American Speakers for ratings, reviews, videos and information on scheduling James Balcer for an upcoming live or virtual event.
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