HOWELL: Floyd Griffin: Fighter, leader, teacher, respected, servant for all Georgians

Published 11:07 am Tuesday, October 22, 2024

Whenever I’m asked about Floyd Griffin, I’m often overwhelmed by the sheer number of his remarkable accomplishments and accolades. Milledgeville and Georgia have been incredibly fortunate to have such a distinguished gentleman in our midst. His legacy is not only honored at Georgia Military College but is also preserved by the HistoryMakers, which houses his oral history at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.

FIGHTER:

In my experience, there are two types of people when it comes to job applications: those whose life’s work speaks for itself, and those who feel the need to embellish their resumes with accolades and accomplished not earned or deserved. Floyd Griffin undoubtedly belongs to the former category. He faced the challenges of one of Georgia’s most segregated eras, ultimately graduating from Tuskegee University and being commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. His military career culminated in his retirement as a Colonel after serving bravely as a helicopter pilot in Vietnam. His journey reflects not only personal triumph but also a broader fight for justice and equality.

SERVANT LEADERSHIP:

When I think of true leadership, Floyd Griffin stands out. His political career has always emphasized the importance of representing all Georgians, not just those who share his background or beliefs. As a former state senator for District 25, which was predominantly white, he embraced the challenge of leadership with grace and integrity. His dedication to serving his constituents earned him respect and re-election for two terms. In 2002, he made history as the first African American Mayor of Milledgeville, receiving the James Wimberly Racial Barrier Breaker Award for his groundbreaking role. Beyond these positions, he has served on various boards, including the National Conference of Black Mayors, the Georgia College Foundation, and currently as a Board Trustee for Tuskegee University.

TEACHER:

I’ve had the privilege of learning from Floyd Griffin, not in a formal educational setting but as an active participant in the community he has tirelessly served. His influence is evident throughout Milledgeville, where streets and public spaces are named in his honor, like Floyd Griffin Jr. Street and the Black History Plaza. These tributes reflect his significant contributions to our community. Additionally, he has shared his knowledge as a helicopter pilot instructor, Assistant Professor of Military Science at Wake Forest University, and ROTC Director at Winston-Salem State University, shaping the next generation of leaders.

RESPECTED:

Floyd Griffin is one of the most respected and honorable individuals I know. He is not just a former helicopter pilot, businessman, teacher, and politician; he is also a devoted husband of over 55 years, a loving father, and a proud grandfather. When asked about his accomplishments, he often emphasizes these roles as his most cherished achievements.

As I reflect on Floyd Griffin’s impact, the two words that resonate most with me are “mentor” and “friend.” He embodies the qualities we should all aspire to in our leaders.

As we approach the polls in the coming weeks to cast our votes in what may be one of the most pivotal elections of our lifetimes, I encourage everyone to consider Floyd Griffin’s impressive record. He is a candidate committed to fighting for the needs of our entire district, not just a select few. Unlike his opponent, Floyd will have an office within the district, ensuring that he is accessible to all constituents. He understands the importance of holding town halls to engage with the community and to truly listen to our concerns.

Please join me in supporting a candidate who does not need to embellish his resume with hollow accolades. Floyd Griffin represents genuine leadership, integrity, and a deep commitment to serving all of us in Georgia’s House District 149.

Let’s meet at the polls and vote for Floyd Griffin.

Quentin T.  Howell

Chairman

Baldwin County Democrat Party