Kamlager-Dove Introduces Bill to Name Downtown Los Angeles Post Office After Tuskegee Airman Jerry T. Hodges Jr.

WASHINGTON, D.C. - On Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day, Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove (CA-37) introduced legislation to designate the post office located at 819 West Washington Boulevard in Los Angeles, California, as the "Jerry T. Hodges Jr. Post Office Building." A proud Angeleno later in life, Mr. Hodges is remembered for his courageous service as a distinguished Tuskegee Airman during World War II and for his lifelong advocacy for civil rights, equality, and education.

Rep. Kamlager-Dove spoke on the House Floor today to mark the introduction of this legislation and honor Jerry Hodges. Her remarks can be viewed here.

"As a legendary Tuskegee Airman, Jerry Hodges Jr. did not falter in the face of war abroad or the discrimination of Jim Crow at home. His excellence, courage, and commitment to justice prevailed," said Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove. "Renaming this post office in his honor ensures that his legacy continues to inspire generations of African Americans-in uniform and beyond-to serve, lead, and uplift their communities. Each time I visit the Jerry T. Hodges Post Office to drop off my mail, I will be reminded of the responsibility we all share to carry his work forward."

"We are deeply grateful to Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove for honoring the life and legacy of Jerry T. Hodges, whose service, courage, and patriotism helped move our nation closer to its highest ideals," said Barbara Hodges Harding, Daughter of Jerry T. Hodges. "Our family hopes that this post office will serve as a lasting reminder of his sacrifice and will inspire future generations to serve their country and their community with the same unwavering commitment to excellence and determination- Spit fire."

Born and raised in Tennessee and Arkansas, Hodges answered the call to serve his country during World War II by joining the legendary Tuskegee Airmen. After his military service, he attended and graduated from the University of Southern California. He went on to help lead one of the first African American-owned insurance companies in California, worked to expand economic opportunities for young people, and volunteered with veterans' organizations. Hodges was also a founding member of the Los Angeles branch of the David Rockefeller Interracial Council on Business Opportunity and later served as president of the Tuskegee Airmen Scholarship Foundation.

Rep. Kamlager-Dove was joined by Reps. Cohen, Wilson, Figures, and Moore for introduction. To read the full text, click here.

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