Reviewed by: Nathan Watson
History In Motion: Regions Bank honors Lt. General A.C. Roper
Reading time: 3 minutes
Regions Bank honored Birmingham-native Lt. General A.C. Roper with its History In Motion Award this week.
The prestigious honor is part of Regions’ annual Black History Month observances and recognizes distinguished Black leaders who enrich communities with their selfless commitment to making a difference. Roper, who also served as the Magic City’s Chief of Police, is the 16th recipient of the annual award.
Previous honorees include Congressman John Lewis, Odessa Woolfolk and Dr. Richard Arrington Jr.
Two paths: Help a nation and community
In an interview with Bham Now, Roper described how his career provided him two paths to help our nation and community for 42 years as an Army soldier and a police officer for 33 years.
“As a general we did everything from receiving 80,000 Afghans into our country to dealing with North Korean missile launches. Playing a part in that, and being a part of the decision making process, — we stood at the point to do whatever it took to defend the nation.”
Roper then told us why his career in policing made a difference in people’s lives.
“When I started policing, it was about serving our communities while walking the streets, meeting people — trying to help people accomplish their dreams and live in safe communities and go to safe schools. That’s the American dream. It’s really not about politics. It’s about having a safe space to raise our families and send our kids to school.”
Roper: Making history
Roper made history as the first African American in the Army Reserve’s 113-year history to achieve the rank of lieutenant general. He served simultaneously in the military and civilian law enforcement for more than three decades and was chief of the Birmingham Police Department for 10 years.
In retirement, Roper continues to share his expertise and vision through community service and support, recently serving as a strategic advisor to the city Crime Commission.
Why History in Motion matters
History in Motion means a great deal to Regions, according to Leroy Abrahams, Head of Community Engagement for the bank.
“It’s a special event for us. It’s Black History Month. There’s this rich history in this community. It’s appropriate here in our headquarters city that we take the opportunity to celebrate folks that have done such a tremendous job in helping to create the city that we have now.”
Want to learn more about Lt. General Roper’s life and accomplishments? Regions produced a must-watch 10 minute documentary. Check it out:
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