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.