Asian Pacific Americans honored during celebration [Image 4 of 5]

BAGHDAD, IRAQ

05.30.2008

Courtesy Photo

2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division (AA) Public Affairs

The men of Toa O Taji, translated from Samoan to Warriors of Taji, perform the traditional Haka, a Polynesian war dance, during the Asian Pacific American Heritage Month celebration May 30 hosted by the Multi-National Division - Baghdad Soldiers of 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division. Warriors traditionally used the Haka as a means of intimidation. Spc. Matthew Smith (pictured front), a native of Waipahu, Hawaii, and choreographer for the group, said he incorporated the dance into his group's routine to motivate Soldiers stationed in Iraq .The group consists of Soldiers from the 2nd Stryker Brigade Combat Team "Warrior," 25th Infantry Division, and from the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade.

• Date Taken: 05.30.2008
• Date Posted: 06.01.2008 10:20
• Photo ID: 91806
• VIRIN: 080601-O-9999X-004
• Resolution: 1750x1062
• Size: 467.63 KB
• Location: BAGHDAD, IQ