A house RESOLUTION

 

TO recognize and honor the Honorable William Holmes for his historic election on April 13, 1976, and commend him for twenty years of distinguished service as mayor of the Town of Allendale, and for a lifetime of military, professional, and civic achievements which represent a defining chapter in the town's history and offer a legacy that will continue to inspire leadership, unity, and public service for generations to come.

 

Whereas, on April 13, 1976, the Honorable William Holmes became the first Black mayor elected to the Town of Allendale, South Carolina; and

 

Whereas, his election was an historic achievement, as he became the first Black mayor to govern a county-seat municipality in the Palmetto State and was one of only seven Black mayors in the State at that time; and

 

Whereas, Mayor Holmes faithfully served the residents of the Town of Allendale for twenty years, providing steady leadership, dedication, and a deep commitment to public service; and

 

Whereas, prior to his historic election, he honorably served his country in the United States Air Force from 1961 to 1969, with assignments in England, France, Thailand, and at bases across the United States, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant and receiving an honorable discharge; and

 

Whereas, Mayor Holmes further distinguished himself through academic achievement, earning a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Voorhees College to equip himself with the knowledge and discipline that would help guide his professional and civic leadership; and

 

Whereas, he worked as an engineer with DuPont at the Savannah River Site, contributing to efforts critical to national defense and scientific advancement; and

 

Whereas, Mayor Holmes was instrumental in helping form the Henry Aaron Dixie Youth League in Allendale County, creating baseball opportunities for Black youth in Allendale, helping them to gain access to organized sports that foster teamwork, discipline, and leadership; and

 

Whereas, during his two decades in office, he governed the Town of Allendale and remained at the center of municipal leadership and civic life; and

 

Whereas, Mayor Holmes' administration oversaw meaningful growth and development, including the construction of the new Allendale Municipal Building and continued modernization of municipal services; and

 

Whereas, his life reflects a legacy of service to country, profession, and community, inspiring future generations to lead with courage and dedication. Now, therefore,

 

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:

 

That the members of the South Carolina House of Representatives, by this resolution, recognize and honor the Honorable William Holmes for his historic election on April 13, 1976, and commend him for twenty years of distinguished service as mayor of the Town of Allendale, and for a lifetime of military, professional, and civic achievements which represent a defining chapter in the town's history and offer a legacy that will continue to inspire leadership, unity, and public service for generations to come.

 

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be presented to the Honorable William Holmes.

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