Charleston to Honor Heroic Marine with Congressional Gold Medal
In the charming city of Charleston, South Carolina, a heartfelt gala is scheduled to take place on October 26th to celebrate the life and service of a remarkable local hero. Alonzo Harold Rouse, a former Montford Point Marine, will be awarded the prestigious Congressional Gold Medal posthumously, and it’s sure to be a moving evening filled with pride, respect, and recognition.
A Special Evening to Remember
The event will kick off at 6 p.m. at the historic Mark Clark Hall located at the Citadel. The National Montford Point Marine Association, Chapter 47, will graciously present this honor to Rouse’s family, making it not only a tribute to him but also a celebration of the Montford Point Marines as a whole. That’s quite an achievement, wouldn’t you say?
The Legacy of Montford Point Marines
For a bit of context, the Montford Point Marines were trailblazers in the U.S. military as they were the first Black Americans to enlist in the Marine Corps after President Franklin Roosevelt issued an executive order aimed at advancing fair employment for all in 1941. The push for equality continued in 2011 when President Barack Obama signed legislation granting Montford Point Marines the Congressional Gold Medal, recognizing their crucial role in the military and civil rights history.
Remembering Alonzo Harold Rouse
Alonzo Harold Rouse hailed from Mount Pleasant, a nearby community, where his love for nature shone through in his passions for fishing and hunting. Not just a dedicated Marine, Rouse was also a successful entrepreneur, running a chicken farm during the 1970s. His ties to the local community included serving as an usher at Goodwill AME Church, showcasing his commitment not only to his country but to his community as well.
Rouse’s military journey began in April 1946 when he entered Camp Montford Point in Jacksonville, North Carolina. From there, he bravely served in both Guam and Korea. He had also been stationed at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Barstow, California. With such valuable experiences under his belt, Rouse proved himself to be a dedicated serviceman.
Join in the Celebration
For anyone wishing to attend this significant event, be sure to register beforehand. It’s a chance to show support for not only Rouse’s family but also for the legacy of the Montford Point Marines as they rightfully take their place in history. Remember, these events help keep the memory of our heroes alive, and attending this gala can be a lovely way to pay respects.
So mark your calendars and prepare to join the Charleston community on October 26th. Let’s celebrate the life of Alonzo Harold Rouse and the courage of all Montford Point Marines with the honor they so rightly deserve. It’s bound to be a memorable evening filled with gratitude, reflection, and pride!
