This biography of James L. Bates of Weymouth, Massachusetts is a description of a man who earned the respect and honor of a town, state, and country for his actions throughout his life. Bates is the depiction of a natural leader in his personal, business, and military life. With an unassuming demeanor, he accepted the responsibilities of leadership in all his endeavors and never looked for personal accolades. This is the feature that many were attracted to then and now.