Fort Huachuca, AZ. - Fort Huachuca celebrated Native American Heritage Month Nov. 17 at Greely Hall with a video presentation spotlighting Native American veterans, a cultural dance demonstration and special guest speaker, Retired Staff Sgt. Fairrena Locklear.
The event began with an invocation by Chaplain Kirby Vidrina, 40th Expeditionary Signal Battalion Chaplain. Following the prayer Sgt. Nathan Quitugua sang the national anthem.
Lt. Col. Kevin Reeves, commander, 40th Expeditionary Signal Battalion, addressed the distinguished guests, giving recognition and thanks to those providing knowledge, entertainment and support of the Native American heritage.
"We have a great program for you today, and we hope that you enjoy it," Reeves said. "And learn something at the same time."
A four-minute video presentation was played highlighting Native American veterans who had served through several different conflicts, ranging from World War II to current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The Red House Production Dancers performed a variety of dances, including an elaborate hoop dance, eagle dance and ended their performance with a friendship dance. Members from the audience were invited to participate. The Red House Production Dancers led a large group of Soldiers and Civilians through the steps of the dance.
Following the dance performance, guest speaker Locklear first spoke in her native tongue and then translated it for the audience.
"My name is Fairrena Locklear. I am from the Water Flow Together clan. I am born from the Red Running Into The Water clan. My maternal grandfather is from Red House (clan)."
Locklear spoke of her experience in the U.S. Army.
"That is one thing I am most thankful for the Army," she said. "That it's taught me diversity and about many different cultures in the Army. I am proud to serve not only for the United States Army, but also the Navajo nation and my family. I am proud of all the accomplishments, the places I've seen, and the people I have met throughout my career because it has molded me into the person I am today. I am grateful to have served this great nation. And I would serve another three years. I would do it with loyalty, duty, selfless service, honor, integrity and personal courage," she said. "Now go find your adventure and take the best of your career, because before you know it, it will be over."
A slide show was presented and narrated by Locklear explaining information about the Navajo nation, including detailed information about the seal, a map and history.
Concluding the presentation, Reeves presented Locklear and the Red House Production Dancers with certificates of achievement and tokens of appreciation. Together with Reeves, Locklear, a Red House Dancer and Annie Berrier ceremoniously cut the cake with an Army saber.
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