FORT STEWART, Ga. - Soldiers, Families and friends were treated to dancing, drums, and martial arts, showcasing the diverse tradition of the Asian-Pacific heritage during a program sponsored by 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division at Club Stewart on Fort Stewart, May 11.
The theme for this year's Asian-Pacific American heritage observance was leadership to meet the challenges of a changing world.
Asian-Pacific Heritage Month was first recognized in 1990 when former president George Bush declared the month of May a time for the nation to honor the unique customs and traditions of the Asian-Pacific culture that has enriched the United States of America.
"The traditional Hawaiian dancers that were here today are usually something one would only find on the Hawaiian Islands," said Dr. Franklin Odo, Director of the Asian-Pacific American program at the Smithsonian Institution. "For Fort Stewart to be able to have them perform here just shows the level of cultural understanding in our country today."
Odo also said that Asian-Pacific descendants have played a large part of the culture diversity of the military as well as played key roles with 3rd ID.
"During the Korean War, Cpl. Hiroshi Miyamura of the 3rd Infantry Division went above and beyond the call of duty and action against the enemy by jumping from his secure position and killing 10 enemy soldiers in close combat and later five more," said Odo, of the Asian Pacific Soldier who received the Medal of Honor for his valiant service in the Korean War.
Also during the program attendees were entertained by a diverse collection of dancers and musicians as they preformed traditional dances from their culture such as the Magical Fires of Polynesia, which preformed traditional dances of the Pacific Islands and Fushu Diakowhich performed traditional Japanese feudal drums and martial arts.
"This was my first time attending the Asian-Pacific program; but by far the dancing was my favorite," said Sgt. First Class Michael Calvo, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd BCT, 3rd ID.
Sergeant First Class Calvo also said the program offered a great representation and variety from all Asian-Pacific cultures.
Also during the program, attendees were entertained by a diverse collection of dancers and musicians as they preformed traditional dances from their culture such as the Magical Fires of Polynesia, which performed traditional dances of the Pacific Islands, and Fushu Diakowhich, which performed traditional Japanese feudal drums and martial arts.
"This was my first time attending the Asian-Pacific program; but by far the dancing was my favorite," said Sgt. First Class Michael Calvo, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd BCT, 3rd ID.
Sergeant First Class Calvo also said the program offered a great representation and variety from all Asian-Pacific cultures.
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