AL HR406

Commends Colonel Carl Cooper for distinguished military service and honors him on his 98th birthday on March 18, 1920.

Recognizes Cooper's service as a Marine officer who led combat operations during the Battle of Okinawa in 1945, commanding the 3rd Platoon through 84 days of combat and earning a Presidential Unit Citation.

Acknowledges Cooper's 38 years of service in the United States Marine Corps, including tours during the Korean War and Vietnam War, retiring April 1, 1980, and subsequently working for FEMA for 30 years managing disaster relief.

Details Cooper's post-military career as an educator, serving as Principal of Carbon Hill High School and the first principal of Mountain Brook School, while coaching basketball teams to five consecutive state tournament appearances.

Notes Cooper's numerous military awards and decorations including the Legion of Merit, Navy and Marine Corps Medal with Four Stars, and multiple campaign medals from World War II.