ORLANDO, Fla - For Juneteenth this year, the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) has chosen to highlight Lieutenant Robert “Bob” Boswell, who has made an incredible impact on youth sports, community service, and civil rights. His drive to consistently make a difference for the better in every space he steps foot in is an inspiring talent to have. Lt. Boswell has been a strong presence within the Southeastern AAU district for decades and is highly decorated within the AAU community including being inducted into the AAU Hall of Fame in 2014.

Born and raised in Champaign, Illinois where he was the sole black student for six years at a private Catholic school, Lt. Boswell moved to Birmingham, Alabama in eighth grade, spending the majority of his life there. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Alabama-Birmingham and then pursued both a master's degree as well as a juris doctor degree from Birmingham School of Law.

Upon completion of his education, Lt. Boswell joined the City of Birmingham Police Department where he attained the rank of Lieutenant. His efforts in criminal justice and passion for civil rights allowed Boswell to create strong relationships with former U.S. President Bill Clinton and former U.S. Attorney General Robert Kennedy.

Pursuing a career in law enforcement at a time when the civil rights movement was at its peak was a life-threatening struggle. Lt. Boswell faced this adversity head-on, regardless of threats to his life by the Klu Klux Klan and other racially prejudiced people and groups. Boswell created strong relationships with the only two other black men on the force, LeRoy Stover and Johnnie Johnson Jr. These three men faced unimaginable challenges, yet had each other's back through and through.

One notable program Lt. Boswell established was through Operation New Birmingham called the Birmingham Police Athletic Team. This PAL program was established on July 13, 1988, with a goal of creating to aid to minority and underserved group within athletics. During his tenure, Lt. Boswell’s coaching revolved around having a strong sense of athletic excellence coupled with focus on academics. His success led him to receive recognition from which former President Joe Biden, back when Biden was a Senator. While acting as a program director, Lt. Boswell had the opportunity to coach well-known athletes such as Charles Barkley.

On this Juneteenth, the AAU salutes Lieutenant Robert “Bob” Boswell’s dedication and tireless efforts on behalf of America’s youth athletes. We’re honored to highlight an AAU Hall of Fame member and are appreciative for all his efforts on behalf of AAU. From fighting for civil rights, to coaching AAU basketball plus heavy involvement in the Southeastern AAU District as Lieutenant Governor and being on the district finance committee, we are proud to call Lt. Bob Boswell, an AAU member and role model for America’s youth.