[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 146 (Friday, August 13, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E892-E893]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE LIFE OF HERBERT G. JOHNSON, SR., PRINCIPAL CHIEF OF THE 
                    ALABAMA-COUSHATTA TRIBE OF TEXAS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BRIAN BABIN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, August 13, 2021

  Mr. BABIN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the life of the 
Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of Texas' Principal Chief, Herbert G. Johnson, 
Sr., who passed away on Monday, August 9, 2021, at the age of 79. He 
served honorably as the Tribe's Mikko Choba Skalaaba since January 1, 
2020.

[[Page E893]]

  Chief Johnson was born on April 3, 1942, on the Alabama-Coushatta 
Tribe of Texas Indian Reservation, located just outside of Livingston, 
Texas. After graduating high school, he enrolled at Jacksonville 
College in Jacksonville, Texas, where he demonstrated his skills on the 
basketball court. In 1963, Mr. Johnson was selected as an All-American 
after setting the then all-time national record of scoring 67 points in 
a single game. Last year, Jacksonville College recognized him as a 
Distinguished Alumnus.
  A member of the Beaver Clan, Chief Johnson served his community in 
various capacities over the years, including being twice elected to the 
Tribal Council and working as the Tribal Security Director for more 
than 21 years. On October 5, 2013, he was elected as the Tribe's Second 
Chief and remained in that position until being installed as Principal 
Chief following the passing of Chief Clem Sylestine, Mikko Colabe III, 
in 2019. In addition to his dedicated service to his tribe, Mr. Johnson 
sat on the Big Sandy ISD School Board for 48 years and was a faithful 
member of the Indian Presbyterian Church, serving as a devoted deacon 
and elder for many years.
  Madam Speaker, today we remember the life and legacy of Herbert G. 
Johnson, Sr., and express our deep appreciation for his leadership as a 
proud member and Principal Chief of the Alabama-Coushatta Tribe of 
Texas. My heartfelt prayers remain with his family and tribe members 
during this difficult time.

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