HR851: HR851 Davis, James L.; commend

25 LC 112 3546 House Resolution 851 By: Representatives Martinez of the 111th, Clark of the 100th, Cannon of the 172nd, Hilton of the 48th, Richardson of the 125th, and others A RESOLUTION Commending and congratulating James L. Davis; and for other purposes.1 WHEREAS, James L. Davis was born on March 31, 1923, in Lexingto n, Mississippi, and2 this year he enjoys the rare distinction of celebrating his 102nd birthday; and3 WHEREAS, as a youth, his family relocated to St. Louis, Missouri, where he was reared and4 educated, and in 1939, he became a member of the Paramount Golf Club, the first Black golf5 club west of the Mississippi; and6 WHEREAS, James L. Davis served thereafter as a guardian of this nation's freedom and7 liberty with the United States Army, valiantly and courageously protecting his fellow8 Americans during World War II, receiving numerous awards for ou tstanding service, and9 retiring at the rank of Sergeant; and10 WHEREAS, following his honorable discharge, he worked as a member, owner, and trainer11 at the Cahokia Downs and Fairmont Horse Racetracks in Illinois, gaining recognition as a12 trainer extraordinaire and earning distinction on the United States Field Trial Circuit; and13 H. R. 851 - 1 - 25 LC 112 3546 WHEREAS, during the Civil Rights Movement, James L. Davis was broadly recognized for14 his leadership in bringing fair housing to Black residents in S t. Louis, and he continues to15 serve as a faithful patriarch to his church, family, and community; and16 WHEREAS, this distinguished gentleman has given inspiration to many through his high17 ideals, morals, and deep concern for his fellow citizens; and18 WHEREAS, James L. Davis possesses the vast wisdom which only co mes through19 experience and the strength of character which is achieved thro ugh overcoming the many20 challenges of life; and21 WHEREAS, by the example James L. Davis has made of his life, he makes this world a22 better place in which to live, and it is only fitting and prope r that he be appropriately23 recognized during this very special and memorable time.24 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that25 the members of this body commend James L. Davis for his unselfish, dedicated, and loving26 service to the members of his family and community; congratulat e him on the remarkable27 occasion of his 102nd birthday; and extend their most sincere b est wishes for continued28 health and happiness.29 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized30 and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to James31 L. Davis.32 H. R. 851 - 2 -