OSAN AIR BASE, South Korea - Airmen and Soldiers from the 35th Air Defense Artillery Brigade participated in a play hosted by 51st Fighter Wing to commemorate Martin Luther King, Jr., Day, Jan. 14, 2016, at the Osan Air Base Theater.
"This play is about his life from start to finish, a brief little story for the holiday on Monday," said Warrant Officer George King, human resources technician, Headquarters and Headquarters Battery, 35th ADA Brigade, who played the lead role. "I think it's important that we always remember his story and keep it alive every year when his birthday comes around."
The holiday to honor Dr. King was signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1983 and is celebrated annually on the third Monday of January.
As Dr. King's story played out on stage, Soldiers reflected on the opportunities that exist in today's military resulting from the work of civil rights activists.
"It feels really good to be in the Army which is a melting pot. We're trying to be as one and take race out of the equation by judging one another based on our character and willingness to work," said Pfc. Jario Monasterio, wheeled vehicle mechanic, HHB, 35th ADA Brigade. "It makes me feel really good to be part of an organization like the Army because of this." Monasterio played a bus passenger who confronted Rosa Parks for refusing to give up her seat on the bus due to her race.
King contributed to the discussion by commenting on the Army's commitment to equality and educating Soldiers about the civil rights movement.
"It's great to be part of an organization like the Army that accepts the history of all different races and allows opportunity for things such as this play," said King. "The military allows us to come together and spread history regardless of your background."
King said he has felt the legacy of Dr. King throughout his life.
"Growing up I always heard the story of his legacy and life. I feel that it had a lot to do with the opportunities I was able to have growing up as an African-American," said King. "I am 29 years old, so it wasn't that far off when I was a child realizing many of the things he fought for came to fruition. I definitely benefitted from the life he chose to live."
The cast members served cake and refreshments in the front lobby of the theater at the conclusion of the play while discussing the importance of the MLK observance.
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