Naval Supply Systems Command Fleet Logistics Center (NAVSUP FLC) Yokosuka commemorated Asian-American Pacific Islander Month with members of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), May 25.

Held annually to commemorate the contributions of Asian-American and Pacific Islanders, the event included inspirational readings, music, Polynesian Hula dancers, diverse foods and a colorful display of traditional clothing from across the Asia Pacific region.

The event's guest speaker Ship's Serviceman Senior Chief Petty Officer Arnel Yabut kicked off his remarks singing "Kaleidoscope World," by Filipino rapper Francis Magalona, and reminded attendees that the beauty of diversity has no boundaries.

"When you look into a kaleidoscope, you see all the differences - the different colors and shapes," said Yabut. "Whether you are black, white or red, you are looking at a human being, one who deserves respect."

Growing up in the Philippines, Yabut said there were minimal job opportunities, so he learned from his father the importance of taking care of the people around you.

"My father taught me to recognize the beauty of diversity," said Yabut as he read from remarks prepared with the help of his daughters. "He also taught me the value of hard work, not tarnishing our name and the importance of close family ties."

Food and music were a common thread woven through the fabric of the day's event, elemental pieces in the heritage, traditions and culture of Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders. Hula dancers shared the complexity of their art form, with their gentle swaying to island music, and then solicited participation from the audience in a hilarious lesson demonstration. Japanese Navy curry, sushi and mochi balls were laid out on buffet tables next to the Chinese walnut chicken, assortment of rice dishes and cornbread bibinka, the blend of aroma drifting out across the patio and permeating the air.

Many of the inspirational readings included discussions on historical facts and mores, such as the origins of traditional Chinese medicine, which dates back to the second century BCE, and the emergence of the Japanese kimono during the Heian period around 794 AD and its significance to the culture.

NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka Commanding Officer Capt. Jeffery Davis noted the diversity of expression in the dress and performances on display.

"Today's event is reflective of the richness of cultural diversity we enjoy as Americans," said Davis. "Although we may come from different cultures and ethnic backgrounds, we share similar personal hopes and aspirations that drive us each day as Americans and as members of the Navy team."

Davis reiterated the importance of respect and dignity, representing the nation and U.S. Navy, while supporting peace and security for Japan.

"We live in a time when it is easy to think in terms of us versus them, but it is important to remember that our strength arises from thinking in terms of what 'we' can accomplish working together. This is what America is about. This is what our Navy and the NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka team is about."

Asian-Americans and Pacific Islanders of various nationalities have served in the U.S. Navy since the early 19th century, including those of Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Filipino, Southeast Asian, Indian and Polynesian heritage. According to Navy statistics, there are close to 25,000 Asian-American and Pacific Islander Sailors currently serving. That figure includes eight admirals, 659 master and senior chief petty officers, and 318 officers. Among those currently serving is Adm. Harry B. Harris, Jr., commander, U.S. Pacific Command, the highest-ranking Japanese-American in the U.S. Navy.

NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka, one of eight fleet logistics centers under NAVSUP Global Logistics Support (GLS), is the western Pacific region's largest U.S. Navy logistics command and takes great pride in commemorating and celebrating their great contributions.

NAVSUP FLC Yokosuka is one of eight fleet logistics centers under NAVSUP Global Logistics Support (GLS). Headquartered just 26 miles south of Tokyo, it is the western Pacific region's largest U.S. Navy logistics command, networking more than 15 sites with a mission to deliver supply and logistics solutions that enable deployed maritime warfighter readiness in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region.

NAVSUP GLS provides global logistics for a global Navy. The organization is made up of approximately 6,300 military and civilian logistics professionals operating from 105 locations worldwide, providing an extensive array of integrated global logistics and contracting services to Navy, Marine Corps, joint operational units, and allied forces across all warfare enterprises.

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.

For more news from Naval Supply Systems Command, visit http://www.navy.mil/.