The 1st Cavalry Division Resolute Support Sustainment Brigade (1CD RSSB) hosted the African American History Observance at the Coalition MWR on Bagram Airfield (BAF), Afghanistan, Feb. 11, following the theme, "We are the change that we seek."
As Soldiers entered the MWR they were immediately infused with live blues and jazz music courtesy of members of the 1st Cavalry Division Band.
Displays with pictures and information about different aspects of African American history, culture and the impact it had on education were prevalent as Soldiers navigated the room. Each display came complete with a Wagonmaster Soldier to share knowledge and guide attendees along their educational journey.
"We are celebrating the accomplishments and contributions that African Americans have brought to our country and to the military," said Master Sgt. Lissette Smith, Equal Opportunity advisor, 1CD RSSB. "We are all one team, one fight."
Soldiers filled the movie theater for the main event of the observance, starting with a documentary film by 1st Lt. Serena Cooper, human resources officer in charge, Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), Support Troop Battalion (STB), 1CD RSSB, where several celebrities spoke about the importance of education to encourage Soldiers to strive for success.
"I can't be more proud of this organization," said Col. Christopher H. Colavita, commander, 1CD RSSB. "I am taken aback at the loyalty and dedication and all of the efforts put forth by Wagonmaster troops in making the day so special."
Colavita said the observance was inspirational and provided an opportunity for everyone at BAF to come together as a family to celebrate its diversity.
Five 1CD RSSB Soldiers, Sgt. Kayla Worsham, Sgt. Michael Robinson, Sgt. Neyahna Strozier, Spc. Raeshawn Handy and Sgt. Natalia Hartzfield, drew thunderous cheers from the crowd by dancing and lip syncing to African American performers through the years from The Supremes to Michael Jackson to R. Kelly.
The Seven Legends, the 1CD RSSB step team, would have impressed any military drill team with the synchronization of their step-dance performance.
The observance concluded with Colavita, guest speaker Col. Stephon M. Brannon, Chief of Force Management Division, U.S. Forces-Afghanistan, and Command Sgt. Maj. Jill L. Crosby, command sergeant major, 1CD RSSB, participating in a cake-cutting ceremony using the traditional cavalry saber.
"That was the most uplifting and inspirational ceremony I have ever been a part of, and it is indicative of the level of excellence Wagonmasters always produce," said Colavita.
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