F.E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- Members of the Mighty Ninety celebrated African American Heritage Month at a ceremony in the Trails End on F.E. Warren Air Force Base, Feb. 15, 2023.
Airmen joined to recognize contributions by African American historical figures and enjoy a meal together.
The event was punctuated with highlights of figures such as Garrett Morgan, Frederick Jones, Alexander Miles, Lewis Latimer, Patricia Bath, Bessie Coleman and Eugene Bullard.
Though these innovators may not have the same prominence as names like Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X, among others, said Tech. Sgt. Shaniqua Carter, CRF member with the 90th Missile Security Operations Squadron and event organizer, they were instrumental to American history.
“Black history is not just a February thing. No matter where we are, when we look around there is something that was invented or developed with the contributions of Black Americans,” said Carter. “Bringing their stories to light brings awareness to history but it also demonstrates true resiliency and determination, qualities essential to not only be an innovator, but also an American Airman.”
Chief Master Sgt. Sylvetris Hlongwane, 90th Missile Wing command chief, served as the keynote speaker for the event, and opened with a reminder of the purpose and importance of the month recognizing Black contributions to American history.
“Black History Month is a time for all of us to acknowledge key African American leaders from our past and our present, and it’s an opportunity to focus our attention on the contributions of African Americans, despite the history of racism and oppression,” said Hlongwane, 90th Missile Wing command chief. “It honors all Black people from all parts of American history, from the enslaved people first brought over from Africa in the early 17th century to African Americans living in the U.S. today.”