[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 97 (Tuesday, June 11, 2019)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E745]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 HONORING THE MEMORY OF JAMES ROBINSON

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. RASHIDA TLAIB

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 11, 2019

  Ms. TLAIB. Madam Speaker, it is with great pride that we honor the 
memory of James Robinson, who fought heroically in the American 
Revolution. Like many African Americans who fought for American 
independence, Mr. Robinson's contributions went unrecognized for too 
long. We will right that injustice by recognizing his accomplishments 
and honoring his memory.
   Mr. Robinson was born into slavery in Maryland in 1753. After the 
Revolutionary War broke out in 1775, he served in a light infantry 
regiment. James Robinson fought at the battles of Brandywine and 
Yorktown, during which he played a pivotal role in the overtaking of 
the British rampart. The battle of Yorktown ended with the British 
surrendering. Mr. Robinson was rewarded by French General Marquis de 
Lafayette with a Gold Medal of Valor.
   Despite having been promised his freedom in exchange for his 
service, Mr. Robinson remained in slavery. He fought in the war of 
1812. He eventually became free and went on to work as a preacher. In 
short, James Robinson lived an extraordinary life. He passed away at 
the age of one hundred fifteen, buried without recognition for his 
bravery and remarkable work.
   It is an honor to see James Robinson's contributions receive the 
recognition they deserve. We are thankful for his service and give 
honor to his memory and legacy.

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