James D. Dever was born in 1955 and grew up in East Meadow, New York, where he spent his childhood working at his uncle's pool installation business to support his single mother. This early introduction to hard work and responsibility would shape his future endeavors.
At the age of 10, Dever was inspired by the movie "The Sands of Iwo Jima" and decided to join the Marine Corps. He enlisted in 1973 at Levittown, Long Island, and embarked on a 25-year career that would take him on numerous adventures.
As a Marine, Dever served in various roles, including as a senior staff non-commissioned officer with the 1st Marine Division during Operation Desert Storm. He also had the opportunity to participate in the evacuation of Saigon and Phnom Penh in the South China Sea.
Dever's primary focus during his Marine Corps career was in the reconnaissance community. He graduated from numerous prestigious schools, including USMC Amphibious Reconnaissance School, U.S. Navy Field Medical School, U.S. Army Ranger School, and many others.
In 1986, Dever was handpicked by the Marine Corps to advise director Clint Eastwood on the film "Heartbreak Ridge". This experience deepened his appreciation for the filmmaking process and sparked an idea to bring his unique skills and experience to the entertainment industry.
After retiring from the Marine Corps in 1998, Dever founded 1 Force, Inc., a technical consulting firm that provides advisory and training services to the entertainment and gaming industries. With his team of military and law-enforcement professionals, Dever has contributed to over 115 projects worldwide and has set the standard for technical consulting in Hollywood.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dever has demonstrated his adaptability, leadership skills, and passion for his work. From his early days as a young Marine to his current role as a respected consultant, Dever has left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
