February is African American and Black History Month

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman William G. Foster
  • African American and Black History Month Committee
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – Throughout the month of February, the Hanscom African American and Black History Month committee will offer events to commemorate the significant role of “African Americans in Times of War,” this year’s theme.

This theme commemorates the centennial of the end of World War I in 1918 and explores the complex meanings and implications of this international struggle and its aftermath.

“African Americans in Times of War” provides context to the role of African Americans in every American war, from the Revolutionary War era to the present war on terror. It also provides the framework for countless stories related to African American service members, veterans and civilians.

According to the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, whose mission is to preserve the history and culture of those of African descent, this year’s theme highlights the valor and defeat of those who fought in wars.

Throughout the month, the committee has planned several events at Hanscom to observe African American and Black History Month.

Col. Roman L. Hund, the installation commander, signed a proclamation Jan. 29 to recognize the “historic contributions to the growth and strength of our nation in countless recorded and unrecorded ways.”

The committee will collaborate with the 66th Force Support Squadron for an African American and Black History Month-themed First Friday event Feb. 2 at the Minuteman Commons to kick off the observance. First Friday will include trivia, themed beverages for purchase and free drawings.

For further information about this event, contact Jacquelynn Coles at 781-225-5161.

On Thursday, Feb. 22, the committee will host an event at the Minuteman Commons that will feature African Americans Airmen in times of war from the past, present, and future. Retired Lt. Col. Enoch Woodhouse, an original Tuskegee Airman; Command Chief Master Sgt. Henry L. Hayes, Jr., Hanscom’s command chief; and one of the 2016 Air Force Twelve Outstanding Airman of the Year Staff Sgt. Derek F. Miles, are scheduled to speak at this event.

For further information about this event, contact Chris Richard at 781-225-6735 or 2nd Lt. Nicholas Miano at 781-225-3250.

The committee will also feature African Americans who have made unique impacts during time of war through weekly emails sent to members of the workforce.