[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 69 (Tuesday, April 25, 2023)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E352] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
Date: 2023-04-25
Chamber: EXTENSIONS
Mr. RYAN: I rise today to honor the memory of Mr. Command Sergeant Major (ret) James A. McNair, devoted husband to Esther G. McNair (deceased); beloved father, grandfather, and great grandfather; decorated veteran; cherished friend and admired mentor, passed away in El Paso, Texas, on March 31, 2023. James McNair was born the 11th child of James and Mary Magee McNair on their 100 acre family farm in Mt. Olive, MS. He and his siblings would work on the farm before heading off to school each day. At Lincoln High School, he drove a school bus to help ensure other students got to and from school safely. He graduated from high school early and entered the United States Army. Soon after, while visiting his brother in Tuskegee, AL, James met his love, Esther Greene. They shared a passion for dancing, family, education, and service. They were soon married and journeyed through life together until her passing in 2005. CSM McNair served in the U.S. Army for 30 years, including serving at Ft. Bliss, TX, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, Alaska, Europe, and Korea. He received many commendations, medals, and awards, including the Meritorious Service Medal and the Legion of Merit. He retired in 1985 and was recognized on the floor of the United States House of Representatives for his distinguished service, saying ``His outstanding service to his country will long be remembered by his fellow soldiers and greatly appreciated by his fellow Americans.'' After retirement, he and his wife worked in Civil Service for the U.S. Army at Fort Bliss, TX until he retired again in 2004. He subsequently served the Texas Department of the American Legion in many roles, including Texas Department Commander and Trustee. He was an advocate for increased membership, soldier and veteran education, female service members, and veterans' rights. His motto was ``Results Count.'' In appreciation of his community service, the Mayor and City Council of El Paso proclaimed September 20, 2008 ``James McNair Day.'' He was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Esther Greene, his son Tyrone Greene McNair, his parents, and his 10 siblings: Costee, Sr. (Johnnie Lee), Mertis C., Johnnie Mae Barnes (Ervin, Sr.), Geneva Bacot, R.P. McNair (Elizabeth), Alfred Earl ``Terrell'', Sr. (Irma), Zella D. ``Dull'' Weathersby (Arties), Eugene ``Nick'' (Laura), Governor ``Bone'', and Willine Ward (Eugene ``Harry''). He is survived by his children, Reverend Dr. Christopher McNair (Lisa), Minneapolis, MN, LTC (ret) James McNair (Corinne), Vilseck, Germany, Mr. Kerry McNair (Wendy) Atlanta, GA, Mrs. Valerie Hill (Edward), Pflugerville, TX, and Mrs. Janise McNair Dagins, Ph.D., (Clarence), Gainesville, FL, two sisters-in-law: Irma McNair, Ocean Springs, MS, and Laura McNair, Collins, MS, his 15 grandchildren, 1 great grandchild, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. James A. McNair was a humble and selfless patriot. It is my privilege to rise in recognition of his life of service and to honor his memory.