Fisherman turned author gets presidential recognition

LEDYARD, Conn. (WTNH) -- A former lobster boat captain who overcame illiteracy in his 90's and even wrote a book has been acknowledged by the President.

The students at Ledyard Center School have become good friends with Captain Jim Henry.

"It's just so amazing how he started out at that point and then he rose to fame," said third grader Sasha Oaks.

Captain Jim's book, "In a Fisherman's Language," is a source of inspiration.

Up until age 91 Captain Jim was illiterate. He taught himself to read and then wrote the book: an accomplishment which continues to be celebrated.

Captain Jim was also presented with a citation from the general assembly, and Congressman Joe Courtney read a letter from the White House.

"I wish you all the best. Sincerely President Barrack Obama," Rep. Courtney read.

"Well that's quite an honor. I appreciate that," Captain Jim said. "At my age god only knows how long I'll be living."

The presidential recognition comes after his book was accepted into the Library of Congress, which has 838 miles of book shelves.

"It just seems that that's really a story that really belongs in the Congress and also the story about Captain Henry," Rep. Courtney said.

"It's a motivation to see him do what he's done," said Maxine Smith, Captain Jim's great-granddaughter.

The 98-year-old author inspires his family, students at Ledyard Center School, and now so many more. The book is going port-to-port to a school in each of the 50 states.

"I think it's great that he gets to have this much congratulations," said third grader Kaela Lorenzen.

As the students head off to summer vacation the hope is the event will inspire them to continue reading throughout the summer.

"I love reading because of him," Sasha said.