Photo By Bethany Huff | Maj. Lucien Campillo, brigade executive officer, 172nd Infantry Brigade, awards Lt....... read more read more
By Pfc. Bethany L. Little
Multi-National Division - Center
FORWARD OPERATING BASE KALSU, Iraq – Soldiers and civilians gathered at the Morale, Welfare and Recreation stage at Forward Operating Base Kalsu, for a Black History Month program, Feb. 13.
The program provided a learning opportunity for the residents of FOB Kalsu through speeches and music provided by the FOB Kalsu Choir.
Seven Soldiers started the program off by giving "I am" speeches highlighting the significant achievements of seven important figures in African American history. Soldiers described their chosen historical figures life and key accomplishments, which impacted American history.
Highlighted figures included Oprah Winfrey, Reverend Jesse Jackson and President Barack H. Obama.
A heavy equipment construction operator for A Company, 9th Engineer Battalion, 172nd Infantry Brigade, enjoyed voicing the life of Obama.
"I feel honored and privileged at having the chance to participate in this program and voice the accomplishments of our president," said Pfc. Roscoe Graveside, a New York City native.
Guest speaker Lt. Col. Fredrick J. Hannah, battalion commander for 204th Base Support Battalion, 4th Infantry Division, spoke about the struggles and advancements of African-Americans throughout history.
"Today, I want you to join me on a journey to discover the history of slavery up to where we are today," Hannah, a native of Havana, Fla., said.
Hannah spoke about what life was like for slaves in the year 1450. He talked about the evolution of slavery in the United States and how society's views of human equality have continued to move forward.
Hannah concluded his speech and was presented a certificate of appreciation for outstanding support and dedication to the 172nd Inf. Bde during Black History Month by 172nd Inf. Bde. executive officer, Maj. Lucien Campillo.
Soldiers felt attending the event heightened their knowledge of African-American history.
"I'm really happy they did this for us," said Spc. Charrod A. Grimes, from Dayton, Ohio, a logistics clerk for the 204th BSB, 4th Inf. Div. "I gained new knowledge and will continue to research great African-Americans that altered American history."
| Date Taken: | 02.13.2009 |
| Date Posted: | 02.17.2009 08:43 |
| Story ID: | 30108 |
| Location: | ISKANDARIYAH, IQ |
| Web Views: | 273 |
| Downloads: | 113 |
This work, Soldiers share highlights of African-American history, by Bethany Huff, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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