FORT SILL, Okla.-- Soldiers of 3rd Battalion, 13th Field Artillery attended a historical tour and conducted cultural heritage training with descendants of Quanah Parker.
At the beginning of the fiscal year, Maj. Shane Doolan, battalion executive officer, incorporated a monthly cultural awareness program into the unit. It raises awareness and encourages the celebration of diversity within the battalion.
"Our nation has long since been recognized as a cultural 'melting pot' and the military is no exception," Doolan said. "Soldiers and leaders at every level, need to recognize and appreciate the importance of diversity because from it, comes our biggest strength as a military. It is imperative we educate our Soldiers and future leaders on various cultures to give them a breadth of knowledge to take with them in their future endeavors."
The battalion covers a different heritage each month. The cultural awareness day includes a presentation into the historical background of the culture and a meal that celebrates the traditional cuisine of the month's particular culture under review.
November's training event was coordinated by Warrant Officer Ronald Tucker and focused on the heritage of the Native American people. A descendant of several of the Northern Plains tribes (Blackfeet, Assiniboines and Winnebago tribes), Tucker received assistance from Tina Parker Emhoolah and Parker Emhoolah, her husband, the local descendants of Quanah Parker, the great warrior-statesmen.
The day began with a tour of the Warrior's Journey Exhibit Gallery. The purpose of the museum is to provide training and education for military and civilian personnel. It includes about 30 exhibits that cover the warrior's tradition from the pre-reservation period through the present. The exhibit has several historically significant items that were once used by prominent warriors throughout the Southern Plains.
"We looked at the event as a real educational opportunity, not just for the Soldiers, but for our children, grandchildren, family and friends," said Tina Parker Emhoolah. "We took the tour together and participated as a group. Our children were also being educated and seeing things they don't get to see everyday."
For many of the children, this was the first time they had experienced a museum with Native American history.
"I liked seeing the displays in the museum because it was the first time I got to see a museum with Native American stuff," said Aulionna Parra, age 8.
Ronald Tucker, 13, said he found the historical clothing and uniforms most interesting.
After finishing the guided tour, the group left the building and gathered around two lances. Tina Parker Emhoolah, the great-great-great granddaughter of Quanah Parker, addressed the crowd and spoke about the importance of honoring cultural heritage.
She continued, by explaining the significance behind the lance in warrior culture. Parker Emhoolah, spent 30 years in the Marine Corps. They are not only proud of their Native American heritage but also of their American patriotism.
"We are a local military family. My husband is an Indian warrior and an American warrior," she said. "For us, it is the best of both worlds. We are Native American with a proud history, but are also an American military family."
Originally they had one lance, wrapped in otter fur, with a beaded eagle feather for each battle in which her husband had participated. However, the Emhoolahs chose to divide the lances when their family expanded. She presented one feather that had not yet been fastened to the lance.
"This eagle feather represents Iraq and Afghanistan," she said. "We will continue to acknowledge the warrior history so that our children remember and honor all of the warriors in the current conflict."
Then, everyone was afforded the opportunity to hear Parker Emhoolah sing several traditional songs. One of his grandchildren, Brendan, proudly noted that he has heard his grandfather sing many times but that it was the first time that he had seen his grandfather carry his unique shield.
Before the last song, 'Stars and Stripes,' Tina Parker Emhoolah, requested the Soldiers turn and face the American flag. She expressed gratitude for their service, sacrifices and their American patriotism. She acknowledged them as modern warriors.
"Songs tell stories without words spoken," she said. "In the future, when I hear this song I will think of all of you in uniform and will remember our beautiful flag blowing in the breeze."
It was a powerful and moving moment for the Soldiers.
"Today was a unique experience because we came together as a team to honor cultural heritage and history," she said. "This event was not only to provide insight into Native American life. But, to also remind our children to be patriotic. We want them to remember that you all are our Soldiers and that we are here for you."
At the end of the ceremony, everyone was welcomed to enjoy a shared meal. The meal celebrated Native American cuisine and provided time for conversation and reflection on the day's events.
"It was an honor to attend today's event," said 1st Lt. Kelly Buck. "It was a humbling experience and made me feel proud to be an American Soldier. It also provided me with greater perspective on the Native American culture. I look forward to learning more at the next cultural program event."
Overall the cultural event was a success for members of the battalion and their families, the Quanah Parker Tribe and individuals of Native American descent. Through the events and words shared, together all celebrated the proud history of the warrior culture.
"The Army is a diverse profession. We take pride in the fact that those who serve come from every walk of life. It is important to celebrate diversity and the achievements of the Army's past," said Doolan. "Ranging from the Red Ball Express to the Navajo Code Talkers, everyone who has donned this uniform has contributed to its greatness and that should be commemorated."
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