Thursday May 1, 2014
What is it?
Each May, the U.S. Army along with the nation, honors the history of Asian and Pacific Americans to the building of this great nation. The vast diversity of languages, religions, and cultural traditions continue to strengthen the fabric of American society. This month was chosen to commemorate the immigration of the first Japanese to the U.S. on May 7, 1869, and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad – of which the majority of the workers were Chinese immigrants on May 10, 1869.
This year’s theme, Diversity Leadership = Expanding Opportunity: An Imperative for America reiterates Army’s long tradition in understanding the power and potential that is created by embracing diversity among the ranks.
What has the Army done?
Army leadership encourages the total force to publicly honor, Asian and Pacific American Soldiers, civilians and their contributions. All leaders from across the Army are encouraged to plan and execute appropriate commemorative activities to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.
What continued efforts does the Army have planned for the future?
Army personnel will be recognized at premier outreach leadership training programs for their support of Asian Pacific American initiatives. Throughout the year, the Army will celebrate and commemorate the diversity of the Army and leverage and draw strength from the rich diversity within the ranks by recognizing the critical role played by all in strengthening the nation’s presence around the world.
Why is this important to the Army?
American’s Army is a world-class force. The Army recruits the best talent regardless of gender or race and ensure the integration of diverse attributes, experiences and backgrounds, in ways that enhance decision making and inspire high performance. The Army has benefited from the leadership of great Soldiers like Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth, an Iraq War veteran and former Assistant Secretary of Veterans Affairs, and Lt. Gen. Thomas Bostick, who serves as the commanding general of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. These great Americans, and so many other Asian and Pacific American Soldiers and civilians, clearly show that leadership excellence combined with the value of inclusiveness is what makes the force Army Strong.
Resources:
Subscribe to STAND-TO! to learn about the U.S. Army initiatives.