AAPI Month: Advancing Leaders Through Collaboration

By Lt. Cmdr. Nhu Do, USNMRTC Sigonella

I clearly. I was driving onto Naval Medical Center San Diego and was stopped at the front gate for the usual ID check. The sailor rendered his salute, smiled at me, and, in his best Vietnamese accent, said, “Chao Co!” In Vietnamese, this means “hello, ma’am!” I was shocked because I did not expect such an awesome greeting in my native tongue. I politely nodded to acknowledge his salute and smiled back saying, “Chao buoi sang” (good morning).

This small moment in time is significant to me because it highlights the many faces of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have served and are currently serving in the United States Armed Forces.

Each year, the Department of Defense celebrates Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month in May. The month of May was chosen because it commemorates two milestones in Asian/Pacific American history. One milestone is the first known Japanese immigrant’s arrival to the U.S. on May 7, 1843. Secondly, the transcontinental railroad was completed on May 10, 1869, the construction of which involved over 20,000 Chinese workers.

The theme for this year’s observance is “Advancing Leaders Through Collaboration.” Collectively, we are stronger as a team. More importantly, we are stronger as a diverse team. I am proud to wear this uniform and serve as part of this diverse team! Happy Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month to all!