Lieutenant General James Dane Starling graduated the United States Military Academy in 1960, receiving his commission as a second lieutenant in Field Artillery, later transferring to the Transportation Corps.

He served in multiple overseas assignments, including two tours in Vietnam and in Saudi Arabia (Operation Desert Storm). He commanded 21st transportation Company, 7th Transportation Battalion, 507th Transportation Group, 1st Corps Support Command, and the Military Traffic Management Command. Other key assignments included Director, Logistics and Security Assistance, Central Command; and Deputy Commander/Chief of Staff, United States Transportation Command.

He retired in 1993, having served 33 years, and transitioned to the corporate sector as Vice President for Government Affairs for Anheuser Busch until retiring in 2004.

His decorations include: Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal (w/OLC), Defense Superior Service Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (w/OLC), Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal (w/OLC), and Army Staff Identification Badge.