Marion Meredith Beal Honored for Service to Nation

Takes Home Congressional Gold Medal

Ralph Walker recently interviewed Beal on KGEM. -Courtesy Photo

Karen Bass gave the following speech recently, honoring the 90 year old veteran Mariaon Beal;
Ms. BASS of California. Mr. Speaker, today I honor an extraordinary individual from my home district–Marion Meredith Beal for his receipt of the Congressional Gold Medal for his dedication and contribution to the United States Marine Corps. A seasoned leader in his community, he serves as an outstanding example to the Los Angeles area and the nation, demonstrating profound service and devotion to the betterment of his family, his community members, and his country.
Mr. Beal was born in East Texas, moved to Los Angeles in the early 1950’s, and acquired his bachelor’s degree at Bishop College and Master’s at Pepperdine University. He served his country honorably in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1943 to 1945 being named “Honor Man” of his platoon, as he served as an original Montford Point Marine during World War II. He later established himself as Chief Clerk at the Montford Point Marine Corps headquarters serving as the only African American on his staff. Among many other notable achievements, he was also the first enlisted African American to perform duty in the U.S. Marine Corps headquarters in Washington D.C. Mr. Beal helped set the foundation for integration into the U.S.M.C. during a very crucial time for the U.S. Military.
After his service, Mr. Beal continued to demonstrate commitment to his community and country through his work with the Veteran’s Administration Hospital in West Los Angeles, and his time with the Los Angeles Unified School District as Assistant Supervisor of Student Body Finance, among other positions. He also helped found the 78th Street Block Club, and the Cub Scout and Boy Scout troops in his neighborhood. Mr. Beal is devoutly dedicated to the Greater New Light Baptist Church and is passionately devoted to his family. He is a very powerful and influential role model with over 50 years of active involvement in his community and he continues to be a positive example with a caring and genuine character that has dedicated himself to the well-being and improvement of Los Angeles.
Mr. Speaker, I am very proud to have such an inspirational community leader like Marion Meredith Beal as a part of California’s 33rd Congressional District and I congratulate him on the receipt of this award.

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