Yongsan community remembers Dr. King

By Pfc. Jung Youngho (IMCOM)January 23, 2014

Night to Remember Dr. King
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Night to Remember Dr. King
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Night to Remember Dr. King
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Night to Remember Dr. King
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Night to Remember Dr. King
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YONGSAN GARRISON, Republic of Korea -- A community march from Collier Community Fitness Center to the South Post Chapel commemorated the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the civil rights movement, Jan 19.

Approximately 300 people were gathered in the South Post Chapel to remember what King dreamed of for future generations. He worked as a leader in the civil rights movement and strived to achieve a society that treats people equally regardless of their color.

A candle lighting ceremony involving some community children and Col. Michael E. Masley, garrison commander for U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan, set the tone for the event. A video presentation discussed the written work of Dr. King and his memorable 'I have a dream' speech in Washington, D.C. Tribute songs were performed by the South Post Chapel choir, community members, while the audience sang along. Guest speakers, including Cynthia M. A. Butler McIntyre, each took turns sharing what King means to them.

"He wanted to promote the equal treatment of all races and he believed in the ability of all mankind to live together in peace," McIntyre said. "Dr. King did not know us, but he trusted us to make the world a place that he said he dreamed; we have to live up to his trust."

In closing, Masley thanked attendees for remembering Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and supporting what he stands for.

"Tonight we remember not just an ordinary man; we remember Martin Luther King Jr. and the civil rights movement," Masley said. "As we completed our march on Collier Community Fitness Center, I saw something special. You kept on pushing, you kept on speaking and you kept on marching. We have to keep on pushing for what we've got to believe in, keep striving for the values we cherish and be mindful that the hardships we have to encounter are nothing compared to those Dr. King and his fellow marchers faced years ago. When we maintain the faith in ourselves and in the possibilities of this nation, there's no challenge we can't overcome."

Related Links:

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USAG Yongsan on Flickr

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