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H 5589

William Rhett Perry, Jr.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Terry Alexander and 119 co-sponsors

Ceremonially honors the life and legacy of William Rhett Perry Jr., recognizing his military service, professional mentorship, and community contributions.

Introduced and adopted
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 5589

Bill Summary — H 5589 (2025-2026 Session, South Carolina)

Note: This is a House Resolution honoring an individual, not a bill that changes law or creates new programs. It memorializes William Rhett Perry Jr. and extends sympathy to his family.

1) Purpose and Intent

  • The primary purpose is to remember, celebrate, and honor the life and legacy of William Rhett Perry Jr.
  • The resolution expresses appreciation for Perry’s community and country service and offers condolences to his family.
  • It serves as a formal, ceremonial recognition by the South Carolina House of Representatives.

2) Key Provisions and Changes

  • The resolution documents Perry’s life, including:
    • Personal background: born June 26, 1942 in Camden, South Carolina; eldest child of William R. Perry Sr. and Mozelle Kelly Perry.
    • Education: attended Kershaw High School; member of The Citadel Class of 1964 (T Company). His Citadel education was interrupted in 1963 for military service.
    • Military service: U.S. Army officer, ranked as Second Lieutenant after Officer Candidate School; served in Vietnam ( Mekong Delta) during 1967; later promoted to First Lieutenant; decorated veteran with Bronze Star, Silver Star, Army Commendation Medal, Gallantry Cross, Soldier’s Medal, and Combat Infantryman Badge. Participated in Tet Offensive (1968) and contributed an oral history in 2023 to the Library of Congress.
    • Post-military career: investment adviser with firms including E. F. Hutton, Prudential Bache, and Legg Mason; noted as a fiduciary and mentor to young brokers.
    • Personal life: married Lee Davis Todman in 2005; resided in various locations including Lake Murray and Beaufort; enjoyed family time, hunting, fishing, golf, and USC Gamecocks football.
  • The resolution does not authorize funding, create programs, or amend statutes; it is a ceremonial acknowledgment.
  • It directs that a copy of the resolution be presented to Perry’s family.

3) Who/What Is Affected

  • Primary beneficiaries: William Rhett Perry Jr.’s family and community, recognized by the South Carolina House.
  • The broader impact is symbolic: honors veteran service, civic engagement, and personal character.
  • No administrative or regulatory changes, no appropriation, and no policy shifts are enacted.

4) Procedural and Timeline Details

  • Action history: Introduced and adopted on April 28, 2026.
  • Sponsors: A large list of co-sponsors from across the House, indicating broad legislative support and bipartisan recognition.
  • Effective date: Being a resolution, it takes effect upon passage by the House and forwarding to relevant authorities; it does not require gubernatorial approval or create enforceable requirements.

5) Notable Details for Readers

  • Perry’s military honors include the Combat Infantryman Badge and the Soldier’s Medal, highlighting distinguished service.
  • His story includes an oral history contribution to the Library of Congress in 2023, underscoring his lasting historical and educational value.
  • The resolution emphasizes his community commitment, mentorship in the financial sector, and family-oriented life.

In sum, H 5589 is a ceremonial House Resolution commemorating the life, service, and legacy of William Rhett Perry Jr., with expressions of sympathy to his family and a formal tribute to his contributions in military, professional, and personal spheres.

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

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