Dear Source:
I was saddened to learn of the passing of my friend and former legislative colleague G. Luz A. James. Truly, he was a Virgin Islander at heart and extremely proud of St. Croix. His numerous contributions to the St. Croix community in civic and community affairs will live on for generations. From the Christmas Festival to the politics of the community, he made his voice heard. Certainly, he will be missed.
The Honorable G. Luz A. James and I served as members of the Democratic Majority of the 12th Legislature. At that time, the salary of a legislator was $9,000 p. a. and the good Senator sponsored legislation to increase the salary level to $25,000. It was his position that no one should expect a full time legislator to support his family on $9,000 p.a. and at the same time stay focused on the tasks ahead. He also believed that the appropriate salary level would encourage the best talent in the territory to seek a seat in the legislature.
He inspired me when he entered Howard University Law School at age 45, and demonstrated that age is never a factor to those who are ambitious and want to learn. I followed him on to Howard University Law School. When I arrived on campus, most professors asked me if I knew Luz James, because he had left a very favorable impression on them as a student.
I was pleasurably sworn into The Virgin Islands National Guard by the Adjutant General G. Luz A. James who served as the first Adjutant General for the Virgin Islands Guard. He laid the foundation for the unit and he deserves to be credited for his contributions.
Certainly, the Honorable Senator, Colonel and Attorney G. Luz A. James will be missed by all throughout the Virgin Islands. May his soul rest in peace.
Condolences to his wife Asta and children from my wife Betty and me.
Eric E. Dawson.
Viera, Florida
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