HR 851: Davis, James L.; commend

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.

WHEREAS, James L. Davis was born on March 31, 1923, in Lexington, Mississippi, and this year he enjoys the rare distinction of celebrating his 102nd birthday; and

WHEREAS, as a youth, his family relocated to St. Louis, Missouri, where he was reared and educated, and in 1939, he became a member of the Paramount Golf Club, the first Black golf club west of the Mississippi; and

WHEREAS, James L. Davis served thereafter as a guardian of this nation's freedom and liberty with the United States Army, valiantly and courageously protecting his fellow Americans during World War II, receiving numerous awards for outstanding service, and retiring at the rank of Sergeant; and

WHEREAS, following his honorable discharge, he worked as a member, owner, and trainer at the Cahokia Downs and Fairmont Horse Racetracks in Illinois, gaining recognition as a trainer extraordinaire and earning distinction on the United States Field Trial Circuit; and

WHEREAS, during the Civil Rights Movement, James L. Davis was broadly recognized for his leadership in bringing fair housing to Black residents in St. Louis, and he continues to serve as a faithful patriarch to his church, family, and community; and

WHEREAS, this distinguished gentleman has given inspiration to many through his high ideals, morals, and deep concern for his fellow citizens; and

WHEREAS, James L. Davis 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, by the example James L. Davis has made of his life, he makes this world a better place in which to live, and it is only fitting and proper that he be appropriately recognized during this very special and memorable time.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body commend James L. Davis for his unselfish, dedicated, and loving service to the members of his family and community; congratulate him on the remarkable occasion of his 102nd birthday; and extend their 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 James L. Davis.