[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 175 (Wednesday, December 11, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1841]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    TRIBUTE TO DR. CHESTER A. AIKENS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. CORRINE BROWN

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 11, 2013

  Ms. BROWN of Florida. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the constituents of 
the Fifth Congressional District of Florida, I rise today to pay 
tribute to the life of Dr. Chester A. Aikens.
  I am deeply and profoundly saddened by the loss of my dear friend and 
brother, Dr. Chester A. Aikens. This man of prominence and bearing was 
the epitome of a gentleman and a scholar. I am moved by his passion, 
emboldened by his commitments, honored by his friendship and made all 
the better by his innate wisdom and his belief in the integrity of the 
human experience. His was a purposeful life and one that helped shape 
the destinies of historical figures with whom he conversed, and equally 
so that of the common man and woman, in whom he placed unwavering 
faith. I came to know him as a husband, father, and dedicated servant 
to his people and causes, a dentist, a humanitarian, a scholar, a civic 
leader and businessman without comparison.
  Dr. Aikens was born in Madison, Florida, where he was the first black 
football player and honor society member at his high school. He 
graduated from Howard University, Washington, DC, with a doctorate in 
dentistry. He later earned a law degree from Florida Coastal School of 
Law and Master's degree in Business from Jacksonville University. Dr. 
Aikens was also a Major in the Florida Army Reserve National Guard.
  Known as a fearless warrior, Dr. Aikens was a formidable force who 
influenced a generation of young people to give both time and resources 
to their community. Inspired by his strong belief in equal opportunity, 
he was a true civil rights champion, who went on to greatly influence 
the community as a whole.
  As a member of the Jacksonville community for the past thirty years, 
Dr. Aikens' presence will be missed by many. He served on many 
community boards up to and including, first African American from 
Jacksonville to be President of National Dental Association, 
Jacksonville Civic Council, Jacksonville Aviation Authority, long-time 
member, and devoted Deacon of Bethel Institutional Baptist Church and 
many others.
  I am assured, for we all came to know the absoluteness of his word, 
the sanctity of his promise, the depth of his intellect, the breadth of 
his worldly experiences and his place in Jacksonville history.

                          ____________________