The command leadership of Navy Cargo Handling Battalion (NCHB) 1 participated in the "Let Freedom Ring" event at one of the oldest African American houses of worship, the First Baptist Church in Williamsburg, Feb. 23 in honor of African American/Black History month.

NCHB 1 leadership participated with citizens and community leadership to help ring a restored bell at First Baptist Church, which was founded in 1776.

"NCHB 1 is located here in Williamsburg, one of the oldest communities in the United States and we wanted to take part in this event to commemorate what African Americans have contributed to our nation," said Cmdr. Paul Melvey, commanding officer, NCHB 1.

The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation helped to restore the once silent bell to be rung during Black History Month at First Baptist. The bell was acquired in the late 19th century by the church and remained silent throughout the struggle for civil rights. The bell was also silent in the presence of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Mrs. Rosa Parks. The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation played a key role in rebuilding the church and pledged to restore the bell to working condition.
Cmdr. Juan Cabral, NCHB 1 executive officer and NCHB 1's Command Master Chief Derrick Arrington also took part in ringing the bell.

"During Black History Month the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation challenged the nation to ring the bell for freedom throughout the day on Feb. 23 and we wanted to contribute as members of this community," said Melvey.
The event was located in one of the oldest African-American houses of worship, the First Baptist Church. This church was founded in Williamsburg in 1776.

African-Americans continue to serve with distinction, now comprising almost 19 percent of our active-duty enlisted force, 8 percent of our active-duty officers and 5 percent of our flag officers.

NCHB 1 supports Navy Expeditionary Logistics Support Group, a component of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command, which delivers expeditionary logistics capabilities with mobilization-ready Navy Reserve forces and active-duty Sailors. They provide a wide range of supply and transportation functions critical for peacekeeping, crisis response, humanitarian assistance, and combat service support missions.

For more news from Navy Expeditionary Logistics Support Group, visit www.navy.mil/local/nelsf/.