[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 9 (Friday, January 15, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E43]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 IN RECOGNITION OF JESSE JAMES JACKSON

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                        HON. WILLIAM R. KEATING

                            of massachusetts

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, January 15, 2021

  Mr. KEATING. Madam Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the 
extraordinary life of Jesse James Jackson, a Congressional Gold Medal 
recipient, a United States Marine veteran, and successful entrepreneur.
  Jesse was born in Savannah, Georgia in 1921. As soon as he was able, 
Jesse enlisted with the United States Marine Corps at the age of 21. 
Jesse served prior to World War II training Black volunteers at 
Montford Point, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. After the outbreak of 
war, Jackson earned the rank of sergeant fighting valiantly in the 
Pacific Theater and was honorably discharged from service in 1946.
  His service, and that of his fellow Marines at Montford Point, was 
recognized with the Congressional Gold Medal. I was proud to present 
the nation's highest civilian honor for distinguished achievement to 
Jesse personally. During World War Two, African American Marines served 
with courage and distinction, and they were instrumental in the 
integration of the United States armed forces. Their service extended 
to the greater civil rights movement, with many becoming mayors, 
lawyers, educators, doctors and in Jesse's case, successful 
entrepreneurs. Shortly after serving in the Marines, Jesse moved to 
Boston, Massachusetts. There, he ran a myriad of successful businesses 
and entrepreneurial ventures, including; Jesse's Fish and Chips, 
Jesse's Taxi and Slades Nightclub.
  After a successful career, Jesse retired to Plymouth, Massachusetts. 
However, he by no means slowed down. Jesse was quite the jetsetter and 
was constantly on the move, continuing to live life to the fullest.
  Jesse James Jackson passed away on December 13th, 2020, at the age of 
99. His commitment to breaking racial barriers in order to fight for 
our country will not be forgotten. Jackson's legacy will continue to be 
honored and cherished by our nation and the many people he touched 
throughout his life.
  Madam Speaker, I am proud to honor the life of Jesse James Jackson. I 
ask that my colleagues join me in recognizing his life's commitment to 
our country.

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