Warren celebrates Native American Heritage Month Published Dec. 6, 2010 By Staff Sgt. Mike Tryon 90th Missile Wing Public Affairs F. E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, WYO -- Throughout November, Air Force Global Strike Command's Mighty Ninety celebrated Native American Heritage Month. Two Native American cultural events were already held in the first couple of weeks here. Not only was there a Native American heritage event held in the Fall Hall Community Center, there was also an event held for the children attending Freedom Elementary School, said 1st Lt. Kenneth Canty, 90th Security Forces Squadron and wing point of contact for Native American Heritage Month. "We decided one event for the wing wasn't enough," the lieutenant added. "We felt it would be nice to also host something additional for the children before the Thanksgiving break." During the wing potluck Nov. 19 in the Fall Hall Community Center, members of the Iron family came from Fort Collins, Colo., to share their Native American culture, by dressing in traditional garb, singing and dancing. There were also artifacts on display and a meal was provided for all those in attendance. "Because society and especially the military is a cultural melting pot, it's important for us to respect each other's cultural backgrounds," said Jim Hunt, 90th Missile Wing Equal Opportunity Office. Special observances are conducted to recognize the continuous achievements of all Americans, American culture and to increase awareness, mutual respect and understanding, Mr. Hunt added. These observances are designed to enhance cross-cultural awareness and promote harmony among all military members, their families and the civilian work force. A book reading also took place Nov. 23 in the gymnasium of Freedom Elementary School, Lieutenant Canty added. The students and faculty were read "Blue Elk," which is a children's book depicting Native American culture. The book was read by Staff Sgt. Kristi Farmer-Hudson, 90th SFS, who dressed in traditional clothing. Senior Airman Cory Cruise, 90th SFS, also dressed as a Native American, and was there to help Sergeant Farmer-Hudson and Lieutenant Canty during the event. After the book reading, the children got a chance to look at some artifacts, which were borrowed from the Cheyenne museum, Lieutenant Canty said. One of the artifacts the children enjoyed the most was a drum, the lieutenant added. "Every single child there beat on the drum." Some of the other artifacts were a hatchet, a shield, arrows and arrow heads, a necklace and many more. "I had a lot of fun putting all this together," Lieutenant Canty said. "And, it was nice to have some of my Airmen come out and help." African American Heritage Month will be the next cultural heritage to be celebrated, Mr. Hunt said. For more information about cultures or cultural events on base, contact the 90th Missile Wing Equal Opportunity Office at 773-6060.