[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 98 (Wednesday, June 27, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1155]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      HONORING MARION MEREDITH BEAL FOR HIS SERVICE TO THIS NATION

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                            HON. KAREN BASS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 27, 2012

  Ms. BASS of California. Mr. Speaker, today I honor an extraordinary 
individual from my home district--Marion Meredith Beal for his receipt 
of the Congressional Gold Medal for his dedication and contribution to 
the United States Marine Corps. A seasoned leader in his community, he 
serves as an outstanding example to the Los Angeles area and the 
nation, demonstrating profound service and devotion to the betterment 
of his family, his community members, and his country.
  Mr. Beal was born in East Texas, moved to Los Angeles in the early 
1950's, and acquired his bachelor's degree at Bishop College and 
Master's at Pepperdine University. He served his country honorably in 
the U.S. Marine Corps from 1943 to 1945 being named ``Honor Man'' of 
his platoon, as he served as an original Montford Point Marine during 
World War II. He later established himself as Chief Clerk at the 
Montford Point Marine Corps headquarters serving as the only African 
American on his staff. Among many other notable achievements, he was 
also the first enlisted African American to perform duty in the U.S. 
Marine Corps headquarters in Washington D.C. Mr. Beal helped set the 
foundation for integration into the U.S.M.C. during a very crucial time 
for the U.S. Military.
  After his service, Mr. Beal continued to demonstrate commitment to 
his community and country through his work with the Veteran's 
Administration Hospital in West Los Angeles, and his time with the Los 
Angeles Unified School District as Assistant Supervisor of Student Body 
Finance, among other positions. He also helped found the 78th Street 
Block Club, and the Cub Scout and Boy Scout troops in his neighborhood. 
Mr. Beal is devoutly dedicated to the Greater New Light Baptist Church 
and is passionately devoted to his family. He is a very powerful and 
influential role model with over 50 years of active involvement in his 
community and he continues to be a positive example with a caring and 
genuine character that has dedicated himself to the well-being and 
improvement of Los Angeles.
  Mr. Speaker, I am very proud to have such an inspirational community 
leader like Marion Meredith Beal as a part of California's 33rd 
Congressional District and I congratulate him on the receipt of this 
award.

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