Kearsarge Celebrates Women's History

USS KEARSARGE, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors aboard USS Kearsarge (LHD 3) celebrated Women's History and Heritage Month during a celebration held in the ship's hangar bay, March 31.

The celebration highlighted the significant contributions women have made as members of the armed forces, as well as to the nation.

"It is important to have the observances and remember the struggle for women to be allowed to serve because our history is our strength," said Logistics Specialist 1st Class Natali Philip, master of ceremonies. "The struggle for women to serve was over when I joined the Navy, but I think it is important for those of us who weren't around to understand what happened and the process it took to allow women to serve."

The ceremony featured the Blue Jacket, Junior Sailor, Sailor, and Senior Sailor of the Year as guest speakers, with each giving examples of the women who have inspired them to be great.

Chief Personnel Specialist Kenyatta McCain read the poem, "Phenomenal Woman", and was then followed by one Cmdr. Julia King, Kearsarge's senior female officer.

"The sacrifices women have made throughout history cannot be forgotten," said King. "We must remember to move forward, and must also keep in mind that being in the military is a special thing. It's a serious commitment to being a leader, and being someone that young children can look up to."

Following the ceremony, a performance from many of the various talents aboard Kearsarge was held in the hangar bay. Many of the favorites from "Kearsarge Idol" and the "So You Think You Can Dance Competition" returned to give performances celebrating women's history.

"It was a great event, and it really gave everyone an opportunity to showcase their talents without worrying about judges or scores," said Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuels) Airman Douglas Grapp, Kearsarge Idol champion.

"It wasn't a contest, and there were no scores; it was just people performing in honor of women's contributions to the military and to the country, and I think that's a very noble thing."

Capt. Baxter Goodly, USS Kearsarge commanding officer, gave his thoughts and personal experience with the integration of women into the aviation community during his speech.

"I remember when they first started integrating women into the aviation field, many of the older aviators thought planes would fall out of the sky and the world would end," said Goodly. "Well, obviously, that did not happen, and these days, the Navy is a much stronger organization with the inclusion of women. Rear Adm. Peg Klein, who just departed Kearsarge, is a prime example of that strong leadership that has benefited the Navy with the inclusion of the women."

For more news from Commander, Amphibious Squadron 4, visit www.navy.mil/local/phibron4/.