Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Headquarters sponsored an information display to celebrate National Native American Heritage Month for military and civilian personnel Nov. 30 in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania.
"Since the birth of America, Native Americans and Alaska Natives have contributed immeasurably to our country and our heritage, distinguishing themselves as scholars, artists, entrepreneurs, and leaders in all aspects of our society," said Rear Adm. Jonathan Yuen, Commander NAVSUP and Chief of Supply Corps, in a message to the NAVSUP workforce. "They have served in the United States Armed Forces with honor and distinction, defending the security of our nation with their lives."
Capt. Kevin Jones, NAVSUP Chief of Staff, introduced Ms. Carla Messinger of Turtle Clan Lenape and cultural educator and director of Native American Heritage Programs. Ms. Messinger, who was accompanied by her husband, Allan, is from Allentown, Pennsylvania. She is the author of "When the Shadbush Blooms," a beautifully illustrated children's story about tradition and change.
Ms. Messinger stated, "While so much has changed, so much of native tradition is still alive. Today we are still using similar methods in building tools and weapons, harvesting food, and discovering medicinal remedies."
The information display offered a hands-on opportunity to learn about the Lenape culture through tools, weapons, musical instruments, jewelry, cooking utensils, toys and literature.
Mr. Messinger commented, "In New England, a lot of men in the whaling fleet were Native Americans, particularly harpooners, and they were already trained seamen. The whaling industry by that time was already in hard times, so many went into the Navy ... they were ready to serve."
NAVSUP provides U.S. naval forces with quality supplies and services. With headquarters in Mechanicsburg, Pa., and employing a diverse, worldwide workforce of more than 22,500 military and civilian personnel, NAVSUP oversees logistics programs in the areas of supply operations, conventional ordnance, contracting, resale, fuel, transportation, and security assistance. In addition, NAVSUP is responsible for quality-of-life issues for our naval forces, including food service, postal services, Navy Exchanges, and movement of household goods.
For more news from Naval Supply Systems Command, visit www.navy.mil/.
