James Armstrong gave 32 years to the people of Torrance through education, government, and community service. As a Torrance City Council member for six years and mayor for eight years, he oversaw Torrance's renaissance into a beautiful and modern city.

James Armstrong was dedicated to the principles of the democratic process. He taught American Government at Torrance High School from 1958 to 1986. Earlier in his career, he taught at Torrance Elementary School where he was an inspiration to many generations of young people. Because of his influence, many of his students entered careers marked by community service. Among James Armstrong's many honors include the Anti-Defamation league Award, the Valley Forge Teacher Medal for Excellence, the Golden Apple Award, and the honor of being named a Robert A. Taft Fellow in Political Science.