African American/Black History Month

By Senior Leadership of the U.S. ArmyJanuary 26, 2012

African American/Black History Month
The Association for the Study of African American Life and History dedicates the 2012 Annual Black History Theme to exploring African American women's roles in and contributions to the making of America.

From the American Revolution to the present, ... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army)
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FEBRUARY 2012 -- African American women have played a vital role in the history of our Nation and our Army since the American Revolution. Their patriotism, loyalty and leadership, coupled with their hard work, intellect and artistic expression, have enriched the African American community and the Nation as a whole. In slavery and freedom, their struggles have been at the heart of the human experience, and their fight against racism and sexism serve as a testament to their perseverance to overcome adversity.

From Harriet Tubman, a leader and conductor of the Underground Railroad, to Rosa Parks, the mother of the modern Civil Rights Movement, to First Lady Michelle Obama, these courageous women serve as role models for all to emulate. The Army has also benefitted from the leadership, intelligence and contributions of the African American women in our ranks, and today we celebrate the recent promotion of Major General Marcia Anderson, the Army's first African American female Two Star General and recognize Ms. Tracey Pinson, the Army's highest ranking female African American Senior Executive Service member. These women, and so many others, are expressions of a vibrant culture in which African American women play a critical role in the strength of this Nation and our Army.

We are grateful for the sacrifices and contributions African American Women, Soldiers, Civilians and Families have played in our success. We encourage the entire Army Family to honor publicly their contributions by encouraging all leaders from across the Army to plan and execute appropriate commemorative activities to celebrate African American/Black History Month.

//Original Signed//

Raymond F. Chandler III

Sergeant Major of the Army

//Original Signed//

Raymond T. Odierno

General, United States Army Chief of Staff

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John M. McHugh

Secretary of the Army

Related Documents:

Black Women in American History and Culture [PDF]

Related Links:

Joint Force Headquarters National Capital Region and the U.S. Army Military District of Washington