James A. Pina, Jr., 70, of New Bedford died Friday September 13, 2002 at St. Luke's Hospital after a brief illness. He was the son of the late James A. Pina and Constance (Alves) Pires.

Born in New Bedford, he lived in New Bedford and Somerville for most of his life.

He was a communicant of Our Lady of the Assumption Church.

Mr. Pina was formerly employed as a mail handler for the U.S. Postal Service at Logan Airport for many years until his retirement

Mr. Pina was a member of the American Legion, the Disabled American Veterans Dr. C.E. Burt Chapter 7, the Cape Verdean-American Veterans Association, the National Association of Retired Federal Employees, and the American Postal Workers Union. During the Korean War, he served in the U. S. Army. He was wounded in action in Korea on Sept. 19, 1950 and was awarded the Purple Heart. He also was the receipient of the Korean Service Medal with 5 bronze service stars, the Combat Infantry Badge, the United Nations Service Medal, and 2 Overseas Bars.

Survivors include a daughter, Jaime Eden Romero of New Bedford; a sister, Angelina Costa of New Bedford; a brother, Joel Pires of Billerica; a granddaughter, Andrea Romero; and nieces and nephews.He was the brother of the late Antone Pina, Madeline Cruz, Herman Pina, Hector Pina, and Muriel Pina.

Funeral from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New BedfordTuesday morning September 17, 2002.Funeral Mass at Our Lady of the Assumption Church at a time to be announced.Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours will be on Monday September 16, 2002 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM. Burial will be in St. John's Cemetery.