Can a relative (a grand son) provide a fair and impartial analysis of the Life and Times of Sir James Peiris? I was born after he died. But I have heard so much about him. I have been influenced and inspired by his life - a life that has influenced and inspired so many others. A guiding principle of James Peiris' life was a commitment to truth. I use truth as a standard in preparing this lecture, which admittedly is permeated by the respect and reverence which is accorded to James Peiris by everyone who personally knew him.