[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 86 (Wednesday, May 21, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E461]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING VICTOR JOHNSON

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 21, 2025

  Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
and commend Mr. Victor Johnson of Rosedale, Mississippi--a man whose 
lifelong dedication to the trucking industry and the Mississippi Delta 
region has resulted in transformative educational and economic 
opportunities for countless individuals.
  Victor Johnson, a native of Rosedale, MS, has been around truck 
driving his entire life. His deep family roots in the profession--from 
his father and grandfather to his brothers, uncles, nephews, and 
cousins--shaped his path and passion from a young age. By age 12, Mr. 
Johnson was already behind the wheel, foreshadowing a lifelong 
commitment to the road.
  With a strong independent streak and the entrepreneurial spirit 
instilled in him by his late mother, Cleo, Mr. Johnson has built a 
legacy that bridges family tradition, public service, and economic 
empowerment. In 2009, he founded Sam's Express LLC, a trucking company 
that still keeps him on the road today. Yet his contributions extend 
far beyond the highway.
  Recognizing the critical need for local truck driver training in the 
Mississippi Delta, Mr. Johnson founded the Delta Driving Institute 
(DDL) in Cleveland, MS. One of the few institutions of its kind in the 
state, DDL began accepting students in September 2023. Through a four-
week, state-certified training program, Mr. Johnson--himself a 
certified third-party examiner--equips individuals over the age of 18 
with the knowledge and practical experience required to earn their 
Commercial Driver's License (CDL). Graduates can pursue gainful 
employment across the country, lifting themselves and their families 
toward economic stability and success.
  Mr. Johnson constructed much of the Delta Driving Institute campus 
himself. It now includes a fleet of five rigs and a dump truck used in 
training. His school emerged in response to the many voices he heard in 
the community--individuals who were frustrated by the need to travel to 
distant cities like Jackson to pursue CDL training. By offering a local 
solution, he has removed a significant barrier to entry for aspiring 
drivers in the Delta region.
  Victor Johnson is a proud graduate of West Bolivar High School, 
Mississippi Delta Community College, and Valley State University. He 
has served his community not only through business but also as a former 
candidate for the Bolivar County Board of Supervisors. Continuing his 
legacy of development and empowerment, he is also the builder and owner 
of Cleo Apartments, a housing complex named in honor of his mother, 
whose values and influence have played a pivotal role in shaping his 
journey.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize Victor Johnson as a 
visionary leader, a selfmade entrepreneur, and a committed son of 
Mississippi. Through his hard work, determination, and service to 
others, Mr. Johnson is helping steer the Delta toward a brighter 
future--one driver at a time.

                          ____________________