Remembering our past

Event marks Native American heritage

By J.M. Simpson on November 6, 2015

Fortitude is defined as courage in the face of pain or adversity.

In light of America's history, Native Americans can correctly point to the fact that they fought with fortitude in order to preserve their way of life.

In fighting to first protect what they believed to be theirs, and then later fighting to be seen and treated as equals in this Nation, their fortitude never wavered.

Never. And that spirit will be in evidence during this month's Native American observance on base.

"It is important we sincerely acknowledge the great legacy of resilience taught to us by the Native Americans' history," Maj. Kelly Haux, public affairs officer, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, wrote in an email.

This spirit, this heritage, this unwillingness to surrender to forced change is worthy of honor and respect.

In August 1990, President George H.W. Bush declared the month of November as National American Indian Heritage Month.

To that end, the 1st Squadron, 14th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team invites Joint Base Lewis-McChord and local communities' members to attend the 2015 National Native American Indian Heritage Month Observance.

Currently, over 4,000 American Indian/Alaska Native soldiers serve in today's Army.

The event will be held Nov. 18 at the Evergreen Theater from 1:30-3 p.m.  The theme is "Growing Native Leaders: Enhancing Seven Generations."

The guest speaker will be Willie Frank III, vice-chairman of the Nisqually Tribal Council.

Following his remarks, guests will be able to partake of a cultural presentation and a food sampling.

"Army leadership values the honorable service of all its servicemembers," continued Haux.

"Despite facing adversity repeatedly, Native Americans' vision and determination have helped to transform our National character and enriched our understanding of their distinct cultures."

For more information, contact Sgt. 1st Class Shawn Elkin, at 253.967.0398 or shawn.d.elkin3.mil@mail.mil.