Bill > HR1496

This resolution honors the life and legacy of Robert Elmo Nichols, Sr., expressing the deep regret of the House of Representatives at his passing. It highlights his pioneering service as one of the first African American Marines, known as the Montford Point Marines, who were allowed to enlist in 1942 following a presidential directive, breaking racial barriers in the U.S. Marine Corps which had previously excluded Black individuals from 1798 to 1942. The resolution details Mr. Nichols' birth in 1923, his graduation from high school, his enlistment in the Marine Corps during World War II where he trained at the segregated Montford Point facility, and his subsequent pursuit of higher education and military career. He earned a degree, was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the Army Reserve through the Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC), and retired from the Army Reserve as a Lieutenant Colonel, while also serving as an elementary school teacher and dedicating 34 years to the Norfolk Naval Supply Center. The resolution also notes the significant recognition Mr. Nichols and his fellow Montford Point Marines received in 2011 with the Congressional Gold Medal for their historic contributions and sacrifices. Finally, it directs the Clerk of the House to provide a copy of this resolution to Mr. Nichols' family.

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/73686