The Virginia State Association (VSA) is pleased to learn the name of the
Middle School in Prince William County, Virginia had been changed from
“Stonewall Middle School”, honoring Confederate General Thomas
Jonathan “Stonewall” Jackson from the Civil war to “Unity Braxton
Middle School”. The new name honors an African American couple,
Carroll, and Celestine Braxton of Manassas Virginia both of whom has a

history of many acts of pursuing equal rights for all in Prince William
County. Celestine Braxton was a teacher in the local schools for over
thirty years.
Each year during their “Fall Conference” the VSA, Veterans (Co-Ed)
Department has a luncheon that pays tribute to our Veterans. The
luncheon is an event including guest speakers, a tribute to MIAs, and
individual recognition of each veteran present. He/She receives a
certificate of appreciation and a gift bag containing several items. The
veterans are sponsored by the Lodges and Temples of the VSA and the
number is traditionally more than 30. The featured event of the
luncheon is honoring a very special veteran with a significant record.
When the military record of Master Gunnery Sergeant Carroll Braxton
(MGySgt) was brought to the attention of the Virginia State Association
Veterans Department they did not hesitate to select him as our honoree
in 2012. Carroll Braxton was among the first group of blacks to begin
basic training at Montford Point a separate training facility located next
to Camp Lejeune, N. C. in 1942 when the Marines were integrated. The
story he tells of the harsh treatment he received there is interesting. Mr.
Braxton went on to serve honorably in WW II and the Korean War. On
June 27, 2012 he received the prestigious Congressional Gold Medal in
Washington, DC. The VSA is proud to have had him as our honoree.