Camp Ramadi holds Martin Luther King Day observance

Photo By Staff Sgt. Ricardo Branch | Marine Lt. Col. Steven Logan, the liaison officer to the Anbar provincial chief judge, reflects on the impact of Martin Luther King Jr., on today's military.  

RAMADI, IRAQ

01.22.2008

Story by Spc. Ricardo Branch 

1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division

CAMP RAMADI, Iraq – Service members and civilians alike honored the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., in a ceremony at Camp Ramadi's Fellowship Hall Jan 21.

King was assassinated nearly 40 years ago and is remembered for his message of peace. The gathering came together to pay respect to a man who fought for equality and freedom for people.

During the tribute to the slain civil right leader, Soldiers recited the famous, "I have a dream" speech, and were treated to a rendition of King's favorite gospel songs.

1st Brigade Combat Team commander Col. John Charlton opened the ceremony by talking to the audience about King's contribution to Americans.

"Thanks for taking time out of your day to remember one of the greatest people to have ever lived," Charlton said. "He made a big difference in the world and in particular our nation."

Charlton went on to add that much like the civil rights movement back home in the 1970s, Iraqis today face a similar kind of trouble in Iraq.

"When I talk to Iraqis about the situation here in Iraq, one of the people I like to use as an example is Dr Martin Luther King Jr., and about how he worked so hard and gave his life to unite America," he said. "We had division in our country that was literally tearing it apart, much like you see in Iraq today. If Iraqis can find someone like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and raise him up to show them the way like he did for us."

Following Charlton's remarks, Capt. Tobyas Brazzle, Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st BCT automations officer recited the "I have a dream" speech to the ceremony attendees. He spoke about the need to honor King's memory with this holiday.

"It's important to recognize the sacrifices King made for America," Brazzle said. "Having ceremonies like this shows the value of our history is not lost even while deployed."

Marine Lt. Col. Steven Logan, the liaison officer to the Anbar provincial chief judge, was the key-note speaker who closed the ceremony by reflecting on the significant changes brought about from King's work in America. He spoke about the direct contribution of King, and how it's apparent in many organizations today.

Logan said the "I have a dream" speech had one key to it: "Those sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at a table of brotherhood. That's what it's all about."

He added, "No matter where you come from, no matter the color of your voice, you are all equal. The military exemplifies fairness, justice and equity for everyone."

• Date Taken: 01.22.2008
• Date Posted: 01.23.2008 11:09
• Story ID: 15705
• Location: RAMADI, IQ