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The diversity committee aboard the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) hosted a celebration of Black History Month for the crew Feb. 16, 2021.
While providing opening remarks, Capt. Neil Koprowski, commanding officer of Kearsarge, lauded the contributions of African Americas to our nation and emphasized the importance of embracing diversity.
“This celebration recognizes black Americans and their amazing contributions to the United States, specifically the Armed Forces,” he said. “To celebrate a culture and a heritage, that makes us the incredible fighting force that we are.”
This year’s theme for Black History Month is “The Black Family: Representation, Identity, and Diversity.”
“What a perfect theme,” said Koprowski. “The greatness of America can be measured by the collective contributions of its citizens, both past and present. Our future will be measured by our ability to uphold and instill in others our most valuable assets… shared culture, history, knowledge, and a sense of community. Taking pride in accomplishments and achievements brings endless possibilities today, and boosts the capabilities in the future.”
The guest speaker for the event was Kearsarge’s very own Senior Chief Yoeman Tyrone Mason, who has been serving in the Navy for 21 years and shared his insights on the progress he’s seen.
“Just recently our country has witness the selection of the first African American leader of the Department of Defense,” said Mason. “The Honorable Lloyd Austin, but many say it is the highest honor in the U.S. Navy is to have a ship receive your namesake.”
Mason then talked about Naval Station Norfolk and ships on the waterfront bearing the namesakes of African American’s. Ships such as the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Oscar Austin (DDG 79) and USS Gravely (107) – just to name a few.
Oscar Austin was named after African America Medal of Honor recipient Pfc. Oscar Austin who gave the ultimate sacrifice during the Vietnam War and Gravely was named after Vice Adm. Samuel Gravely who was the first African America to command a U.S. Navy ship, become a fleet commander, and flight officer.
He went on to discuss the many naval innovations that have been invented by African Americans, furthering the Navy’s capability.
Following Mason’s remarks, Kearsarge Sailors took turns to stand up and read aloud the stories of African Americans who helped pave the way to racial equality in America.
“Please remember that observing Black History Month is not pitted in an ‘us against them,’ mindset,” said Mason. “Just an opportunity for recognition of the contributions African Americans have made in the United States despite the sacrifice many of our ancestors had to overcome. And though we may have further to go, don’t forget how far we’ve come.”
| Date Taken: | 02.16.2021 |
| Date Posted: | 03.01.2021 08:37 |
| Story ID: | 389504 |
| Location: | NORFOLK, VIRGINIA, US |
| Web Views: | 7 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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