James Just, known as Jim or J.J., built his career around the "beautiful noise" of the siren.  He worked full-time for private ambulance companies until he joined the US Marines, serving in Vietnam and earning the rank of sergeant.  Following active duty, he spent over 38 years working for Los Angeles City Fire Department as a paramedic.  In his spare time, he completed his Bachelor of Science degree and earned his law degree.  He died of aortic dissection, less than a week before his retirement date.