[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 205 (Wednesday, December 13, 2023)]
[House]
[Page H6866]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                JAYDEN DANIELS, HEISMAN TROPHY RECIPIENT

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentleman from 
Louisiana (Mr. Carter) for 5 minutes.
  Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate an 
extraordinary talent and force in the world of college football, LSU's 
Jayden Daniels, the recipient of this year's Heisman Trophy.
  Jayden's journey has been remarkable, defined by grit, determination, 
and a love for the game. Winning the Heisman is not just a personal 
victory, it is a testament to the countless hours of hard work, 
sacrifice, and unwavering support of your teammates and coaches.
  It truly takes a village.
  Jayden's skill on the field has captivated fans, and his leadership 
has inspired generations of future athletes.
  As Jayden holds this coveted trophy, may he know that he has etched 
his name in football history and Louisiana history. Mr. Speaker, I 
congratulate Jayden on this well-deserved honor. I know it will be a 
stepping stone to even greater heights.


                            The City of Love

  Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 
pastoral anniversary of Bishop Lester Love and Pastor Fran Love. 
Twenty-five years of faithful leadership have shaped The City of Love 
into a beacon of hope and inspiration.
  Bishop Lester Love has shepherded The City of Love with a clear 
vision. His exemplary leadership has not only guided his congregation 
but has become a blueprint for leadership excellence in churches and 
corporations alike.
  Alongside him, Prophet Fran Love, a woman of unwavering faith, has 
demonstrated her commitment to social justice through initiatives like 
the Daughters of Life and Love, DOLL. I admire her active devotion to 
uplifting others and serving mankind and womankind.
  Together, they have led The City of Love with passion and a 
commitment to community service. Their outreach organization, LOVE365, 
has touched thousands of lives.
  Beyond the pulpit, Bishop Lester Love and Prophet Fran Love have 
become pillars of support for the greater New Orleans community. Their 
influence extends far beyond the walls of The City of Love, reaching 
into the hearts and lives of those they touch.
  As I congratulate this remarkable couple, I also express my gratitude 
for their friendship and guidance.
  May the next chapter of your journey be filled with continued 
blessings and fulfillment for the mission of love and the people that 
you serve.


      Awarding Congressional Gold Medal to Montford Point Marines

  Mr. CARTER of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the 
valor and resilience of the Montford Point Marines whose invincible 
spirit has left a permanent mark on our Nation's history.
  Eighty years in the making, eight courageous New Orleanians received 
the Congressional Medal of Honor this November, a long overdue 
recognition of their pivotal role as the first African Americans to 
join the Marines.
  Their names are:
  Private First Class Granville ``Jack'' Alexander, Sr.
  First Sergeant Nolan A. Marshall, Sr.
  Staff Sergeant Charles E. Allen, Sr.
  Corporal George A. Dupre, Sr.
  Private First Class, Andrew J. LeBlanc.
  Staff Sergeant Melvin O. Parent, Sr.
  Sergeant Gilbert Smith, Sr.; and
  Private First Class Lloyd B. Wills, Sr.
  These heroes who fought to fight for America and made a way from no 
way, faced adversity head-on and did it with pride and honor.

  Barred from the national marines boot camp, they persevered at 
Montford Point, enduring grueling training and overcoming the stigma 
that African Americans couldn't serve as marines. They not only served 
honorably, but they blazed a trail for 20,000 African Americans who 
followed in their footsteps.
  In 1949, Montford Point was decommissioned but their legacy endures. 
Their sacrifice paved the way for diversity and inclusion in the Marine 
Corps, and we proudly embrace their history and their service today.
  Thank you for your incredible service.
  God bless you, and God bless America.

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