HONORING JAMES R. WILLIS

On 2026-02-11, Representative Shontel M. Brown (D-OH-11) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING JAMES R. WILLIS" in the House. The speech addressed defense.

HONORING JAMES R. WILLIS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 29 (Wednesday, February 11, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 29 (Wednesday, February 11, 2026)] [House] [Page H2174] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING JAMES R. WILLIS (Ms. BROWN asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute.) Ms. BROWN. Mr. Speaker, I rise during Black History Month to honor an extraordinary constituent, Mr. James R. Willis, a marine, an attorney, and a true Cleveland legend. In 1944, Mr. Willis joined the Montford Point Marines, one of nearly 20,000 Black men who volunteered to serve immediately after President Roosevelt integrated the military. Despite facing racism and segregation, he served his country honorably, and in 2011, the Montford Point Marines were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of their service. After the war, Mr. Willis built a legal career that has left a lasting mark. For more than 70 years, Mr. Willis has practiced criminal law, becoming a legendary courtroom advocate, a national leader, and a mentor across generations. He argued four cases before the Supreme Court on protections against unlawful search and seizure, helping to strengthen the rights of all Americans. Even today, at the age of 100, he continues his lifework. On behalf of a grateful district, I thank Mr. Willis for a lifetime of courage, service, and dedication to justice. ____________________