MS SC607

Phillip Martin, Tribal Chief of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians for 28 years (1979-2010), died on February 4, 2010.

Chief Martin transformed the tribe's economy from less than $100,000 in assets to $1.3 billion, creating approximately 9,000 permanent jobs through tribally owned businesses including casinos, golf courses, manufacturing, and printing operations.

Martin established the Silver Star Hotel and Casino (1994) and Golden Moon Hotel and Casino (2002) as major gaming enterprises, along with the Pearl River Resort complex featuring the Dancing Rabbit Golf Course.

Chief Martin founded the United South and Eastern Tribes organization in 1969 and served as President of the National Tribal Chairmen's Association, advocating for tribal self-determination and education through a Choctaw Tribal Scholarships Program.

The Mississippi Legislature mourns Chief Martin's passing and commends his legacy of leadership, economic development, and the principle of tribal self-determination.