With leadership from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center Yokosuka (FLCY) celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 21 in Yokosuka.

The event is held annually to recognize the heritage and contributions of Hispanic Americans to the military and throughout history.

Guest speaker Master Chief Petty Officer Kim Roman, a Puerto Rican and native of the Bronx in New York, shared her experience as a young girl growing up in foster homes and subsequent enlistment in the U.S. Navy at the age of 18.

“The Navy gave me many opportunities to excel. I knew that if I focused on school after enlisting, I could create a different life for myself. The leaders I had helped me embrace my differences,” said Roman, a Master Chief Legal man. “What makes the Navy great is our diversity. Be proud of who you are, of your heritage and your culture. I am the American Dream and my cup runneth over.”

In addition to guest speakers and educational readings, the event provided an opportunity for command personnel and JMSDF attendees to experience a unique perspective, from inspirational readings and traditional food to music, salsa and flamenco dance demonstrations.

"Hispanics have made enormous contributions to our country and our Navy throughout history,” said NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka Commanding Officer Capt. Frank Nevarez, a Hispanic American. “From the early days of the Navy’s existence right up until today, Hispanic Sailors have been answering the call to duty and fighting the good fight to keep our Navy and our country the beacon of light for the rest of world.”

For the second year in a row, Master Labor Contact Advisor Kumiko Toi, who was born in Tokyo, demonstrated the art of flamenco dancing, which she learned at the age of 17 while living in the U.S. Having spent several years dancing professionally throughout Arizona and California, Toi had a lot of influence from the Hispanic communities in those two states.

"I lived and danced in the southwest of the United States for three years,” said Toi. “I love the Hispanic culture. They are very open and made me feel welcome.”

Seventeen percent of the Navy’s enlisted force identifies as Hispanic. That figure includes eight percent of the officer force and four percent of all admirals. There are currently more than 12,000 Hispanic civilians working for the Department of the Navy. Those figures contribute to the diversity that provides the Navy with different perspectives, skills and ideas.

Observances such as the Hispanic Heritage Month celebration held in Yokosuka, Japan were created by the U.S. Navy to increase awareness, mutual respect and understanding of the different cultures that comprise the sea service. It is observed annually from September 15th to October 15th to increase awareness, mutual respect and understanding. These types of events are designed to enhance cross-cultural awareness and promote harmony among all members of the workforce. Headquartered in Japan, NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka has a diverse and blended workforce comprised of military members, civilians and foreign nationals.

NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka is one of eight fleet logistics centers under Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP). Headquartered just 26 miles south of Tokyo, it is the western Pacific region's largest U.S. Navy logistics command, networking more than 14 sites with a mission to deliver supply and logistics solutions that enable deployed maritime warfighter readiness in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

NAVSUP provides U.S. naval forces with quality supplies and services. With headquarters in

Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, 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 naval forces including food service, postal services, Navy Exchanges, and movement of household goods.

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