CSTC-A celebrates Women's History Month in Afghanistan

Courtesy Photo | Betsy Beamon, founder and director Women of Hope Project, speaks to Combined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan staff at Camp Eggers March 27. Beamon was the guest speaker during a Women's History Month celebration. (Photo/Seaman Tim Newborn)  

KABUL, AFGHANISTAN

03.28.2008

Courtesy Story

NATO Training Mission Afghanistan

By Seaman Timothy Newborn
Combined Security Transition Command – Afghanistan Public Affairs

KABUL, Afghanistan — Virginia Woolf once said, "As a woman, I have no country. As a woman, my country is the whole world." For nearly 30 years, Americans have celebrated the contributions of women throughout history.

Nearly 150 soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and civilians gathered together to continue that tradition during a Women's History Month celebration March 27 at Camp Eggers.

Exelena Whitaker, assistant to the chief of real estate for Combined Security Transition Command – Afghanistan, started the ceremony by singing the national anthem.

Army Master Sgt. Mary Jones, CSTC-A personnel support non-commissioned officer in charge, followed with "Moments in History," a runway show comprised of reenactments of historical women. The segment also showcased women from CSTC-A.

"Today's event was spectacular. It was a very good tribute to women, especially women in the military," said Air Force Capt. Jennifer Mack, CSTC-A, morale, welfare and recreation officer.

During her speech, guest speaker Betsy Beamon, Women of Hope Project founder and director, talked about the plight of women in Afghanistan and while under Taliban rule. The changes happening today would have never been accepted then, said Beamon. She also gave a detailed account of her journey as an American woman living with the Afghan people.

Beamon added how grateful she is to the service men and women who have helped her along the way.

"I'm grateful for the U.S. military and their continued support, protection and friendship throughout this journey," she said.

Petty Officer 1st Class Kimberly Pol, Integrated Logistics NCOIC, explained why it is important to her to observe this holiday.

"It's necessity to show great things that women have done in the past. Change is necessary to inspiration," she said.

The Camp Eggers Gospel Choir entertained the crowd with the song, "Blessed."

"When I think about women's history month it reminds me of my mother and daughter and how important it is to recognize their everyday efforts in my absence," said Air Force Col. Chris Davis, logistics director, CSTC-A.

"Hopefully, through the program today, we as women and as people will remember how important it is to go out and make a positive difference in the world," said Whitaker.

Women's History Month began as International Women's Day on March 8, 1911. Congress legally expanded the focus to an entire month in 1987.

• Date Taken: 03.28.2008
• Date Posted: 03.28.2008 11:50
• Story ID: 17856
• Location: KABUL, AF