HI HR17

Recognizes Dr. Ernest James Harris on receiving the Congressional Gold Medal, one of the two highest civilian awards in the United States.

Acknowledges Dr. Harris as among the first African-Americans to enlist in the United States Marine Corps after President Roosevelt's 1942 presidential directive.

Notes Dr. Harris graduated magna cum laude from an all-black public high school in Little Rock, Arkansas, and was trained at Montford Point, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

Confirms Dr. Harris was presented the Congressional Gold Medal on November 12, 2016, in a ceremony at Washington Place, Honolulu, Hawaii, as a member of the Montford Point Marines.

Commends Dr. Harris for his bravery and courage in service to the nation and extends warmest aloha and best wishes from the Hawaii House of Representatives.