[Congressional Record Volume 166, Number 10 (Thursday, January 16, 2020)]
[House]
[Page H318]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    PAYING TRIBUTE TO WILLIE BELTON

  (Mr. JOHNSON of Louisiana asked and was given permission to address 
the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. JOHNSON of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to 
Mr. Willie Belton, a political leader, successful businessman, and 
decorated war veteran who passed away on January 8, 2020.
  Born and raised in Basile, Louisiana, Mr. Belton went on to serve in 
the United States Army and was awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple 
Heart for his heroic acts of sacrifice. Later, he received the 
Louisiana Veterans Honor Medal in gratitude for his faithful service.
  Mr. Belton was also a monumental figure within the civil rights 
movement. In 1960, he was chosen to lead a local NAACP chapter and 
worked alongside some of history's heroes, including Dr. Martin Luther 
King, Jr., to put an end to racial discrimination and ensure equal 
opportunity for all.
  Mr. Belton was the first African American in Evangeline Parish to run 
for State representative in a predominantly white district. Even though 
he didn't end up winning that election, he made an enormous impact on 
the State of Louisiana by breaking down barriers, extinguishing fear, 
and paving the way for those who followed.
  Our prayers are with the Belton family as they grieve the loss of an 
American hero. His service to this country and his active commitment to 
social justice will never be forgotten.
  May he rest in peace.

                          ____________________