National Black History Month

By LN2 Tramaine Hunden, RLSO EURAFSWA Det. Sigonella, Photos courtesy of National Archives and Naval History and Heritage Command

America is a nation of innovators, thinkers and inventors. We pride ourselves on the fact that we are comprised of many multicultural citizens who stand for equality, freedom and justice.

February is a month dedicated to African American History. It is a time that, as a nation, we purposefully reflect and honor the many contributions of Black Americans in shaping our country. In the U.S. Navy, we honor those who came before us to serve as a steadfast example to guide our actions today. For us here at Sigonella, we want to remember those heroes who dedicated their lives in reverent service to our nation in the name of freedom and justice even amidst tumultuous cultural upheaval. So please join us in reflecting on these African American Sailors who served while standing for their rights and dreams to help make the difference for us all.

Carter G. Woodson, an African American historian and author, initiated the first “Negro History Week” on Feb. 1, 1926 in order to highlight the contributions of African Americans to the United States of America. In February of 1976, during the bicentennial year of American independence, President Gerald Ford issued the first Black History Month proclamation, calling upon American citizens to celebrate: “We can seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history. I urge my fellow citizens to join me in tribute to Black History Month and the message of courage and perseverance it brings to all of us.”