New Hanover commissioners honor Montford Pt. Marines, retiring reps

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — New Hanover County Commissioners took their turn to recognize the dedication the Montford Point Marines made to their county.

The first black Marines received the Congressional Gold Medal last month. Today county commissioners unanimously approved a resolution to recognize their sacrifices and service on a local level.

The commissioners personally thanked each Marine, who say they hope today’s military can learn from their historic service.

“I sure hope they’re understanding and watching and understand what we had gone through for the first seven years of segregation in the Marine Corps for African American Marines,” retired Gunnery Sgt. F.M. Hooper Jr. said.

Also at today’s meeting, commissioners recognized retiring state representatives Carolyn Justice and Danny McComas for their dedication to New Hanover and Pender Counties.

The two Republicans are both retiring after several terms serving the region in the state House of Representatives.