Fort McCoy's Black History Month observance set for Feb. 20

Courtesy Photo | During February, the Department of Defense pays tribute to the African American men and women who not only forever changed the course of history but also redefined the United States military. (Department of Defense Graphic Illustration)  

FORT MCCOY, WI, UNITED STATES

01.24.2020

Courtesy Story

Fort McCoy Public Affairs Office           

Fort McCoy‘s Black History Month observance is scheduled for 11:30am Feb. 20 at McCoy‘s Community Center, building 1571, at Fort McCoy.

The speaker for this observance is Dr. Willie David Larkin, past president of Grambling State University, La.

During his career, Larkin worked at four land-grant universities, two historically black colleges and universities, supported a chancellor leading 13 two-year institutions, and is now serving as the chief of staff to the president at Edgewood College, a small liberal arts Catholic college in Madison, Wis.

Larkin is an active proponent of lifelong learning and embraces the values of a college and university environment. His professional and senior management philosophies are grounded in trust, respect, integrity, honesty, and transparency.

Committed to putting people first, Larkin works with all organizational hierarchy and academic units to accomplish a shared-vision for the organization and the community at-large.

The Department of Defense (DOD) is commemorating the 75th Anniversary of World War II by recognizing the contributions and sacrifices made by service members as well as those who served on the home front.

During the anniversary, the country pays tribute to those Americans who undauntedly and courageously contributed to the defense of our nation. Often overlooked are the valiant efforts of African Americans.

African Americans played an immeasurable role in the United States‘ armed forces during World War II, serving bravely and with distinction from the initial attack on Pearl Harbor to the last days of the Pacific campaign.

Although the United States armed forces weren't officially desegregated until 1948, World War II laid the foundation for post-war integration of the military.

More than 2.5 million African-American men registered for the draft, and black women volunteered in large numbers. While serving in the Army, Army Air Forces, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and War Department, they served with distinction, made valuable contributions to the war effort, and earned well-deserved praise and commendations for their struggles and sacrifices.

During February, the DOD pays tribute to the African American men and women who not only forever changed the course of history but also redefined the United States military.

(Article prepared by the Fort McCoy Equal Opportunity Office.)

• Date Taken: 01.24.2020
• Date Posted: 01.24.2020 10:49
• Story ID: 360240
• Location: FORT MCCOY, WI, US