HONORING FIRST LIEUTENANT JAMES CLAYTON FLOWERS

On 2026-09-28, Representative Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-2) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING FIRST LIEUTENANT JAMES CLAYTON FLOWERS" in the House.

HONORING FIRST LIEUTENANT JAMES CLAYTON FLOWERS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 153 (Monday, September 28, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 153 (Monday, September 28, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Pages E992-E993] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING FIRST LIEUTENANT JAMES CLAYTON FLOWERS ______ HON. GABE VASQUEZ of new mexico in the house of representatives Monday, September 28, 2026 Mr. VASQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor First Lieutenant James Clayton Flowers, who is the oldest living United States veteran, a retired teacher, and a proud resident of New Mexico's 2nd Congressional District. Born on Christmas day in Dendron, Virginia, James was raised by his father, who was a farmer, and his mother, who was a teacher. His father taught him bricklaying before he entered the military in 1942, at 25 years old. James remembers his parents were strongly anti-war, and his decision to join the military was a difficult choice. Shortly after James began his service in the Army Air Corps, he was chosen to become an officer. He completed Officer Candidate School at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, and was commissioned as a second lieutenant. During this time, he began pilot training but did not complete the program. Instead, the Army recognized his intelligence and outstanding academic record and appointed him an Academic Instructor with a specialty in Aerodynamics and Mechanics. In this role he taught cadets aviation intelligence, threat analysis, and security, and he became one of the first Black United States military pilots. James served at several key domestic military bases during World War II, including Godman Field, Kentucky, and Freeman Field, Indiana. He departed the military after 5 years of service. James is a member of the Tuskegee Airmen, which are the first Black aviators that served with the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. While stationed at Freeman Field, Indiana, he served with the 477th Bombardment Group. This was the first Black bombardment unit in Air Force history and became renowned for fighting against ``separate but equal'' practices in the military. James remembers being one of the few black officers in the military at the time and once instructing [[Page E993]] an all-black intelligence squadron that was ecstatic to have him as their superior. Serving during this time was incredibly challenging as black servicemembers faced intense racism and discrimination, but his service tells a story of excellence, courage, and breaking systemic barriers. Following the war, James moved to New York City where he met his wife, Evelyn, and they got married in 1951. He became a middle school science teacher alongside Evelyn, who also taught in public schools. Teaching students and serving as a mentor for the next generation was one of James' greatest joys in life. James and Evelyn taught school and raised their children on the lower east side of Manhattan for 30 years before retiring in New Mexico in 1984. Evelyn passed away in 2008 at 88 years old, and James reminisces on their happy and wonderful marriage. Together they had 3 kids, 6 grandchildren, and 3 great-grandchildren. James has lived a remarkable life, and he is most proud of his wonderful family and his work as a teacher. James is a strong man of faith and has been a member of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Las Cruces for over 40 years. During his membership with the church, he has served as the congregation's representative for the annual meeting of the Unitarian Universalist Association known as the General Assembly. James and his wife also acted as grandparents for children in the church without any living or nearby grandparents. Additionally, James taught students religious education during his tenure teaching. James is cherished in his community and loved by his neighbors, who appreciate his commitment, steadfastness, and strength. He is also loved by his caregiver, Lidia Macias, Dr. Sierra, and Home Kare Inc. of Dona Ana. He was awarded the New Mexico Medal of Merit from the New Mexico Army Air National Guard for ``exceptionally meritorious service for his lifelong commitment to service, sacrifice, and dedication to the continued success of our great Nation.'' On behalf of the people of New Mexico's 2nd Congressional District, I would like to thank First Lieutenant James Clayton Flowers for his courageous service and sacrifice to our Nation, his incredible work as an educator, and for his ongoing dedication to our local communities. He exemplifies the best that New Mexico and our country have to offer, and we are truly grateful for his tireless service. ____________________