During the Vietnam War Jerome Gary Cooper became the first African American officer to lead an infantry company into combat in Marine Corps History. He retired after 32 years of military service as a U.S. Marine Corps Major General. In retirement he was elected to the Alabama State Legislature, becoming one of the first African Americans since reconstruction elected from Southern Alabama. In 1994 he was appointed by President William J. Clinton as the first African American to serve as the United States Ambassador to Jamaica.
Sponsored by:
Jerome
Gary
Cooper
Awards Received
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Navy Distinguished Service Medal
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Legion of Merit
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Navy Distinguished Service Medal
(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Major General Jerome Gary Cooper, United States Marine Corps, was awarded the Navy Distinguished Service Medal for exceptionally meritorious and distinguished service in a position of great responsibility to the Government of the United States. His singularly distinctive accomplishments and his dedicated contributions in the service of his country reflect the highest credit upon himself and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service.
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Legion of Merit
(Citation Needed) – SYNOPSIS: Major General Jerome Gary Cooper, United States Marine Corps, was awarded the Legion of Merit for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding services to the Government of the United States.