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HR 120

CONDOLENCES: Expresses the condolences of the House of Representatives on the death of Clarence Durham, the last living LaSalle Parish World War II veteran

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Gabe Firment

Honors Clarence Durham for his WWII service and lifelong community contributions in Louisiana, expressing condolences and recognizing his legacy.

Taken by the Clerk of the House and presented to the Secretary of State in accordance with the Rules of the House.
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Bill Summary · HR 120

Summary of HR 120 (2026, Louisiana)

Title

CONDOLENCES: Expresses the condolences of the House of Representatives on the death of Clarence Durham, the last living LaSalle Parish World War II veteran

Main purpose and intent

  • To formally express the condolences and respect of the Louisiana House of Representatives upon the death of Clarence Durham, identified as the last living World War II veteran from LaSalle Parish.
  • The resolution honors his military service, family, faith, community involvement, and lifetime of work and service.

Key provisions and changes

  • Declares the House’s condolences for Clarence Durham’s death (March 18, 2026).
  • Affirms Durham’s biographical highlights, including:
    • Birth: August 16, 1927
    • Early life: left school after fifth grade to support family
    • Military service: joined the U.S. Merchant Marine at age 17; served in Okinawa, transporting supplies for troops in Japan and elsewhere
    • Family: marriage to Beverly Hunt; three sons
    • Career: forty years in the oil industry, drilling rigs across multiple towns/states; residence in Abbeville and later Jena, Louisiana
    • Community and faith: longtime member of East Jena Baptist Church; member of the Michael Dempsey Lodge
    • Family and legacy: survived by brother Dallie Durham, three sons, multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren
  • Expresses deeply felt appreciation for his military service and extending wishes of comfort to family and loved ones.

Who/what would be affected

  • The resolution is ceremonial and symbolic; it does not create new laws, authorize spending, or impose regulatory changes.
  • It affects:
    • The state’s historical record and commemorative practices
    • The community of LaSalle Parish, recognizing its World War II veteran
    • The broader public record in Louisiana as a formal act of remembrance by the Louisiana House

Procedural and timeline aspects

  • Action history:
    • April 14, 2026: Read by title and adopted (twice noted in the record)
    • April 13, 2026: Read by title (larger process prior to adoption)
    • April 17, 2026: Taken by the Clerk of the House and presented to the Secretary of State (as required for transmitting the resolution)
  • Sponsor: Representative Gabe Firment (co-sponsor)
  • The Digest notes: The digest is an informational summary prepared by House Legislative Services and not part of the legal text.

Notable details

  • The bill is a House Resolution (HR) and is a ceremonial tribute, focusing on honoring an individual for his service and community contributions.
  • No fiscal impact, regulatory changes, or policy shifts are included in the text.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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