HJR 394

HJR394 193111-2 By Representative Mooney RFD: Rules First Read: 13-MAR-18 HJR394 ENROLLED, House Joint Resolution, RECOGNIZING DEVIQUE MCWILLIAMS ON HIS SELECTION AS A 2018 YOUNG HERO OF ALABAMA. WHEREAS, highest commendations and congratulations are herein proudly presented to Devique McWilliams on his outstanding achievement of being selected as a 2018 Young Hero of Alabama; and WHEREAS, the Young Heroes Program, presented by Alabama Public Television, recognizes students in grades 9-12 who have excelled in academics, given of themselves through public service, overcome adversity, or inspired others through deeds and strength of character; and WHEREAS, Devique is a student at W.P. Davidson High School in Mobile, Alabama; he has experienced unimaginable struggles throughout his life, as early as being diagnosed with meningitis at only six weeks old, an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord; his doctors did not expect him to live, but Devique demonstrated his inner strength and survived the illness; and WHEREAS, his speech and learning abilities were delayed due to his condition, and he did not begin talking until he was six years old, with his doctors diagnosing him with autism and recommending him for special classes; his HJR394 parents declined the offer, convinced he would catch up, and he did, quickly surpassing many students his age in academics and receiving admiration from his teachers who believe he has used his struggles in childhood to motivate him toward a brighter future; and WHEREAS, Devique's mother and stepfather work hard to provide for the family and Devique works part-time to help out with his family while maintaining a 3.5 grade point average at school and participating in the Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC), attending meetings and NJROTC practices to instill knowledge, good character, and healthy lifestyle habits in the cadets while setting his own monthly program goals for personal improvement; and WHEREAS, he holds a significant role in his fraternity, the Alpha Elites, an organization that visits churches, nursing homes, and colleges and helps with community projects and serving the needy; and WHEREAS, quitting was never an option for Devique and his will to live and determination to overcome his obstacles have been inspiring to all of those who know him; and WHEREAS, a worthy role model for countless young Alabamians, Devique espouses the meritorious characteristics of the Young Heroes Program, and he is truly deserving of special commendation and praise; now therefore, HJR394 BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF ALABAMA, BOTH HOUSES THEREOF CONCURRING, That Devique McWilliams is honored and commended, and this resolution is offered to him in highest tribute and with heartiest congratulations, as well as in sincere best wishes for continued success in all future endeavors. HJR394 Speaker of the House of Representatives President and Presiding Officer of the Senate House of Representatives I hereby certify that the within Act originated in and was adopted by the House 20-MAR-18. Jeff Woodard Clerk Senate 21-MAR-18 Adopted