The resolution expresses deep regret and sorrow over the death of former Alabama State Representative and retired United States Marine Corps Major General Jerome Gary Cooper, who passed away on April 27, 2024. Born on October 2, 1936, in Lafayette, Louisiana, Cooper had a distinguished military career, including becoming the first Black officer in the Marine Corps to lead an infantry company into combat. He earned numerous decorations for heroism, such as the Bronze Star, two Purple Hearts, and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. After active duty, he joined the Individual Ready Reserve and held various commanding positions, retiring as a Major General in 1996.

In addition to his military service, Cooper had a significant political and civil career. He was elected to the Alabama House of Representatives in 1974, becoming one of the first African-Americans elected from South Alabama since Reconstruction. He later served as Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Human Resources and was appointed Assistant Secretary of the Air Force by President Bush in 1989. Cooper also served as the U.S. Ambassador to Jamaica under President Clinton and held leadership roles in various companies and community organizations. He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and a great-granddaughter. The resolution conveys condolences to his family and recognizes his life of service and dedication to his country and the state of Alabama.