News>African American Heritage luncheon held at Eglin
Photos
Staff Sgt. Penelope Patterson, 96th Logistics Readiness Squadron, performs a liturgical dance at the African American Heritage Luncheon Feb. 22 at the enlisted club. An expression of prayer or worship, liturgical dance is a tradition in the African American culture. The luncheon, attended by more than 100 people, honored African American soldiers who fought in the Civil War. (U.S. Air Force photo/Sachel Seabrook)
Rev. Jerry C. Jones speaks at the African American Heritage Luncheon Feb. 22 at the enlisted club. The luncheon, attended by more than 100 people, honored African American soldiers who fought in the Civil War. (U.S. Air Force photo/Sachel Seabrook)
2/23/2011 - EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- With a plateful of soul food, a liturgical dance piece and a thought provoking speaker, members of Team Eglin gathered at the enlisted club Feb. 22 to do one simple thing: honor African Americans in the Civil War.
Rev. Jerry D. Jones, college chaplain for Northwest Florida State College, told the untold stories of African American soldiers in the Civil War to more than 100 Airmen and community leaders. These newly freed slaves exhibited sacrifice and bravery when they decided to enlist in the Army to preserve their newfound freedom.
"Their legacy deserves more than a footnote in history and we honor them today," said Rev. Jones.
In his speech, Rev. Jones highlighted men of the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantrylike Sgt. William Carney, the 1st African-American to receive the Medal of Honor. Sgt. Carney received the Medal of Honor for never letting the American flag touch the ground as troops charged towards him, although he was wounded.
"Boys, I only did my duty; the old flag never touched the ground," Rev. Jones said, repeating Sgt. Carney's famous words. "How inspiring is that?"
Audience members sat quietly captivated as they listened to Rev. Jones. At the conclusion of his speech, listeners left feeling encouraged and thankful.
"Black history month is set aside to learn and honor the contributions and achievements of black men and women throughout our history," said Tamika Dereje, 46th Test Squadron. "This message should resonate loudly for anyone who encounters a problem and feels defeated. We should put aside the negative, and remain thankful for what we have while focusing on the positive."
In his closing remarks, 96th Air Base Wing Vice-Commander Col. Porter summed up the event and the celebration of the month in general as inspirational and very important.
"Events like this are important because it does one of the most important things we can do: teach," said Col. Porter, 96th Air Base Wing vice commander.
The final event to honor African-American Heritage Month will be "Eglin's Got Talent", Feb. 25 at 7 p.m. at the enlisted hall.
