Georgia General Assembly · Full text

HR 2003: Pender, Captain Dr. Melvin; commend

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House Resolution 2003

By: Representatives Cummings of the 39th and Mitchell of the 88th

A RESOLUTION

Recognizing and commending Captain Dr. Melvin Pender; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, Captain Dr. Mel Pender Jr. has distinguished himself through a lifetime of achievement as a decorated military officer, world-class athlete, author, and civil rights advocate whose accomplishments have brought honor to the State of Georgia and the United States; and

WHEREAS, known to many as Mel, he first represented the United States at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, where he demonstrated the discipline, courage, and drive that would define his career both on and off the track; and

WHEREAS, he performed thereafter at the 1968 Mexico City Olympic Games, earning a gold medal through his remarkable speed and skill while serving as a combat soldier in the Vietnam War, for which he received the Bronze Star; and

WHEREAS, nicknamed the "Black Knight" in the track world, Captain Dr. Mel Pender Jr. earned admiration not only for his record-setting performances but also for his mentorship, humility, and compassion; and

WHEREAS, his honors further include induction into multiple Halls of Fame, such as the Officers' Candidate School Hall of Fame, the Georgia Military Veterans Hall of Fame, the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame, and the Atlanta Sports Hall of Fame; and

WHEREAS, this distinguished gentleman has given inspiration to many through his high ideals, morals, and deep concern for his fellow citizens, and he possesses the vast wisdom which only comes through experience and the strength of character which is achieved through overcoming the many challenges of life; and

WHEREAS, Captain Dr. Mel Pender Jr. is a person of magnanimous strengths with an unimpeachable reputation for integrity, intelligence, fairness, and kindness; and

WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that the outstanding accomplishments of this remarkable and distinguished individual be appropriately honored.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body recognize and commend Captain Dr. Mel Pender Jr. for his many exceptional lifetime achievements as well as extend the most sincere best wishes for continued health and happiness.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to Captain Dr. Mel Pender Jr.