Duval County's first elected black judge called to duty in Iraq (Florida)

Posted on Mon, Dec. 01, 2003

Duval County's first elected black judge called to duty in Iraq
Associated Press

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Duval County's first elected black judge said goodbye to friends and well-wishers as he prepared for his latest challenge - active military duty in Iraq.

James Ruth, a lieutenant colonel in the National Guard, said he was told to expect to be in Iraq for about a year, where he could perform a variety of duties, including military police, infantry, quartermaster or judge advocate general.

"If you told me to list my top 10 places I want to go, Iraq wouldn't be on the list," Ruth said. "On the other hand, I've been a soldier for many years. ... It's just a part of my life."

Ruth was to report for active duty Monday with the 50th Area Support Group in Homestead and is scheduled to arrive in Iraq Jan. 6, his 48th birthday.

A former prosecutor, Ruth was appointed to the bench by Gov. Lawton Chiles in 1991, and was elected to the position in 1992. (snip/...)

http://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/news/breaking_news/7386179.htm

...is one of the most Republican and racist cities in Florida.

I'd be suspicious.

*

I wonder if his military law experience would merit
a JAG or Judge position? His civilian law credentials seem
to be pretty strong. Hell, he was elected to the post.

If he ends up in the infantry overseas,
how does that serve the greater good for America?

I don't think it is pure coincidence that he is sent just after winning a judgeship.