VMI Jonathan Daniels Award

[bruno]

One of the alumni of whom VMI is justifiably proud was a genuine hero , and yet one who never served in the military, (and who frankly I had not heard of while a Cadet. VMI has moved a long way in the right direction since then), was Jonathan Daniels , who died in 1965 defending a young girl in Haynesville Alabama during the Civil Rights struggles. There is now an arch commemorating Daniels and an award that VMI gives out to someone who has distinguished themself in the defense and pursuit of Human rights.

This is the 50th anniversary year of the murder of Daniels and this year the Jonathan Daniels honoree is US Congressman John Lewis. the 3 previous award winners include President Jimmy Carter, Amb Andrew Young, & Dr Paul Hebert . In a number of ways I am really proud of VMI for this particualr award. Not only did Daniels leave a tremendous legacy for all subsequent VMI alumni- but the award itself is really an indicator that VMI and its alumni can not be pigeon-holed as just military martinets- as some are want to do. Leadership, service, and sacrifice take many forms , not just as Soldiers. I salute the memory and spirit of Jonathan M Daniels and congratulate Congressman Lewis and thank him for his service to all of us with his actions in securing and expanding the rights of all Americans.
Peace
http://www.vmi.edu/Content.aspx?id=10737431854

 

[USNAco2019hopeful]

FYI They are streaming the awards ceremony.

 

[bruno]

John Lewis speech upo receiving the Daniels award is pretty timely:
“Let’s do the best we can to create an America and a world community that’s at peace with itself,” Lewis exhorted his listeners. “Lay down the burden of hate and the burden of separation.”As he concluded his remarks, Lewis quoted the late A. Philip Randolph, organizer of the 1963 March on Washington, who often said, “Maybe our forefathers and our foremothers all came to this great land in different ships. But we’re all in the same boat now.” - See more at: http://www.vmi.edu/Content.aspx?id=10737432184#sthash.QxLwSmVT.dpuf