ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT, Ala -- Barbara Boyd, a member of the Alabama State Legislature, spoke to a large crowd gathered Feb. 15 at the Berman Varner House for the Black History Month Breakfast.

Boyd called upon her years of experience as an educator, peppering her remarks with quotes from literature and historical figures while highlighting the contributions African Americans have made to the U.S. throughout its history.

Special attention was given to those who served in the military, as that coincided with the theme for this year's Black History/African American History Month.

"This year, we are honoring the proud men and women who served this nation in times of war," said Boyd, asking Veterans throughout the audience to stand and be recognized for their service.

She spoke of Lt. Col. Harriet M. Hardin West Waddy, who was one of the two highest-ranking black officers in the Women's Auxiliary Corps during World War II.

During her time in service, Waddy was often criticized for encouraging other African Americans to join the segregated Army.

Boyd said the war against inequality is still being waged on many fronts - inequality in educational opportunities, pay for women and minorities, economic development and healthcare.

She paraphrased the poet Oliver Wendell Holmes Sr., saying, "The greatest thing in the world is not so much where we are, but where we are going."

Anniston Army Depot Commander Col. Joel Warhurst thanked Boyd for her remarks, asking the crowd to constantly be vigilant against personal biases.

"At Anniston Army Depot, we represent more than just the mission. We are a family," Warhurst said.