Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune Celebrates Black History Month

Camp Lejeune, N.C. (NNS) -- More than 100 Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune (NHCL) employees celebrated Black History Month during a ceremony held in the hospital galley, Feb. 25.

The event served to recognize the contributions of African-American service members in the past and how their contributions enabled the successes of the Department of Defense today.

In line with the theme of honoring and commemorating the distinguished service of African-Americans, the ceremony featured Marine Corps Col. Grover C. Lewis, III, assistant chief of staff and director of the Department of Public Safety aboard Marine Corps Installations East, Camp Lejeune, N.C., as the guest speaker.

Lewis, a major proponent of history preservation aboard Camp Lejeune, addressed the audience about the history of America's military and walked the audience through the trials and tribulations African-Americans.

"It is important to know our past," said Lewis. "Knowing our past, especially the history of African-Americans serving in the military during the 1860's, will allow us to take hold of our future. It will allow us to become better Americans."

Lewis then lauded the efforts of all naval hospital employees for serving the Marine Corps population aboard the base while never ceasing to continue upholding the principles of diversity and service by which America was founded.

The program continued with a special musical presentation by Benjamin Bailey, an NHCL family member.
"Bailey's performance was moving; it really made everyone think about where they stand as Sailors," said Hospital Corpsman 1st Class Jamie Davis, diversity committee officer and event co-organizer. "It inspired me to make sure I am upholding the positive spirits of those who overcame challenges in the past, just so I can have a great Navy career."

Also included in ceremony were remarks from Senior Chief Hospital Corpsman Erick Vazquez, command managed equal opportunity manager; Hospital Corpsman Milquella Otero, Obstetrics and Gynecology department; and members from the NHCL Diversity Committee. All of their remarks recognized the efforts of African-American Sailors and Soldiers who were distinguished Medal of Honor recipients and role models for all service members serving today.

Capt. Daniel Zinder, NHCL commanding officer, concluded the ceremony by thanking the ceremony participants and the Diversity Committee members who organized the event.

"I appreciate the contributions made by all Americans, including the African-Americans who paved the way to equality in the military" said Zinder. "We're standing on the shoulders of the people who led the way 150 years ago, and it's an honor to continue moving forward together. Thank you, Diversity Committee, for your efforts in doing just that."

For more news from Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune, visit www.navy.mil/local/nhcl/.