[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 165 (Thursday, November 5, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1605]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  HONORING THE LIFE AND ACHIEVEMENTS OF BROTHER HERBERT HAROLD SIMPSON

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                        HON. CEDRIC L. RICHMOND

                              of louisiana

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 5, 2015

  Mr. RICHMOND. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of Brother 
Herbert Harold ``Briefcase'' Simpson, exemplary Christian Brother and 
prominent professional baseball player in the Negro League. Brother 
Simpson passed away on January 7, 2015, at the age of 94.
   Brother Simpson was born August 29, 1920 in Algiers, Louisiana. In 
his early years, Brother Simpson attended New Orleans public city 
schools where he played semi-pro baseball with the Algiers Giants while 
still in high school. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in 
the military and served in the United States Army.
   During World War II, Brother Simpson served in General Patton's 
Third Army Red Ball Express. He was also the only African-American 
player on a baseball team that played in the Battle League.
   After his honorary discharge, Brother Simpson played professional 
baseball in the Negro League for the next decade. Earning the nickname, 
``Briefcase,'' he was selected to play in Hawaii as a member of the 
all-star team called the All Star Cincinnati Crescents. Brother Simpson 
displayed great courage and perseverance when he integrated two minor 
league teams, the Seattle Steelheads and the Albuquerque Dukes.
   Brother Simpson returned to his hometown where he played semi-pro 
baseball with the New Orleans Creoles while working for the New Orleans 
Parish School Board for 20 years and the State of Louisiana for ten 
years. Brother Simpson later became Deacon of the First Free Mission 
Baptist Church of Algiers. Brother Simpson's dedication to community 
extended beyond his Deacon duties. He was a member of Pride of Algiers 
Lodge #102 Free and Accepted Mason, Prince Hall Affiliation where 
recently Brother Simpson was honored as the society's oldest member.
   Mr. Speaker, I celebrate the life and legacy of Brother Herbert 
Harold Simpson, a soft-spoken man remembered for his faith and 
humility, and for his dedication to life-long civic and community 
service. His service and professional athletic achievements contribute 
significantly to our city's rich history.

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