On the recordFebruary 5, 2014
As we celebrate Black History Month, I rise to honor a remarkable American, John Rogers, Sr., a man of unrivaled determination and intellect who led an extraordinary life. Mr. Rogers moved to Chicago at the age of 12, following the death of his parents, and later earned his pilot's license and enlisted in the Army Air Forces, where he flew in 120 combat missions in World War II as a member of the famed Tuskegee Airmen. He went on to attend the University of Chicago's Law School on the GI Bill and served for 21 years as a Cook County juvenile court judge. He was known as much for his compassion as he was for his conviction, and believed as much in giving second chances as he did in doing things right the first time. Mr. Rogers was a great leader and role model. He passed away last month at the age of 95, but he leaves behind a legacy of accomplishments that have made a greater America and are worthy of being celebrated in any month. ____________________
