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Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy of Herman Blackmon, Sr., an extraordinary man whose service, intellect, and compassion enriched the Bay Area and beyond.

Born in Houston, Texas, Herman spent his early years there before serving three years in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, he made the Bay Area his home, earning a Bachelor's degree in Economics and a Master's in Business Administration from the University of California at Berkeley.

In the late 1990's, Herman served as both council member and mayor of Hercules, California. His leadership was defined by tireless dedication to his community, championing Capital Improvement Programs and advocating for equitable educational opportunities for economically disadvantaged students. As managing partner of his family-owned business, Amanco, Inc., he was instrumental in the rebuilding of several West Contra Costa Unified School District campuses, including Coronado, Riverside, Sheldon Elementary, and Pinole Middle School.

Herman's professional career also included 13 years with Pacific Bell. Yet, beyond his many accomplishments, he was a man of diverse passions--an avid reader, skilled mechanic, and enthusiastic player of dominoes and pinochle. Above all, he cherished time spent with his grandchildren; Jhana, Mark, Aleah, Charles-Justin, Langston, Levi, and Winter.

Herman is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 54 years, Peggy, and is survived by his sons Herman, Jr., and Marcus, his seven grandchildren, and a wide circle of friends and neighbors whose lives he touched through his good deeds.

Herman Blackmon, Sr. leaves behind a profound legacy of public service, civic leadership, and devotion to family. His impact will be felt for generations, I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to Mr. Blackmon's loved ones. I know they and the people of Contra Costa County will join me in celebrating his life and legacy.

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