Thursday, January 17, 2019
What is it?
January 21, 2019 is the Federal holiday celebrating the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The national theme of the day is, “Remember! Celebrate! Act! A Day On, Not a Day Off” to encourage individuals to dedicate the day to community service. This commemoration is an occasion to remember Dr. King’s remarkable life and to follow his principles of unity and equality.
The Army is committed to the ideals endorsed by Dr. King – treating every individual with dignity and respect.
What are the current and past efforts of the Army?
Influenced by Dr. King, the U.S. Army is dedicated to leveraging the strength of its diverse force and ensuring equality for all its members. All Soldiers, Army Civilians and their Families are valued members of the Army team and their contributions continue to be vital to the Army’s success and history.
Army leaders shape personnel policies and implement training that ensures every individual has the opportunity to use their skills and talent. Further, all members of the Army Family are encouraged to commemorate this holiday by participating in community service activities to honor Dr. King’s legacy of compassion.
What are the continued efforts planned by the Army?
Past and present Soldiers and civilians have built a legacy of professionalism, selfless service, dignity and respect. There is no doubt this legacy will serve as a foundation for generations to come.
This day of national community service promotes diversity, fosters inclusive behavior and demonstrates respect for others. When the nation celebrates Dr. King’s dream, it celebrates the American dream.
Why is this important to the Army?
Dr. King’s life and teachings helped to shape the history of the U.S. and the culture of the nation. He dedicated his life to a dream of equality and challenged the nation to recognize that individuals should not be judged by the color of their skin. The Army strongly embraces diversity as a way to create a system that maximizes individual talents, increases morale and greatly enhances organizational effectiveness. Dr. King’s leadership rallied people from all walks of life and awoke a nation to the need for equality, tolerance and justice. The Army recognizes the timeless values of courage, truth, dignity, humility and serve Dr. King taught through his actions as words.
Resources:
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Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.
- Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.