William Beaumont Army Medical Center hosted an equal opportunity observance for Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month, May 30, in the clinical assembly room of the main hospital campus.
Each year, WBAMC recognizes AAPCI Month in May to bring awareness to the challenges faced by Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders and Native Hawaiians as they strive to live the American story. The theme for the event was focused on uniting the mission by engaging each other. Today, nearly 59,000 Soldiers who identify as Asian American/Pacific Islanders serve our country. Their contributions and achievements illustrate the diversity of the U.S. Army.
The annual event welcomed guest speaker Lt. Col. Richelle L. Goodin, deputy director of the practical nurse course, phase II, WBAMC. Goodin shared her experiences growing up as a Philippine native in America and how they shaped her to be the leader she is today.
"(Asian Americans) are hardworking, persistent, compassionate, dedicated and mission-oriented. They are the first in ensuring everyone is appreciated," said Goodin. "My journey began almost four decades ago, to live through these experiences, learning how to adapt, and understand different cultures, and what an adventure."
Goodin reminded the audience how Asian American and Pacific Islanders continue to serve in the military organization, freely as active duty, reserve, National Guard, contractors, deployed and non-deployed, and DoD civilians. "Aside from being immediate family they extend the boundary of family and will take care of others as a member of their family," said Goodin. "They have a rich culture, many diverse in ethnicity and are free spirit thinkers. They have contributed, achieved and continue to accomplish tasks, projects and anything that is perplexed."
The event also welcomed Leilani and the Royal Islanders Polynesian Performance Group. The performance group demonstrated Polynesian dances throughout pacific island traditions, taking the audience through a tour across the Asian Pacific through dance.
The event ended with certificates of appreciation to all who participated and a cake cutting ceremony that included a Polynesian menu at St. Martin's Dining Facility.
The month of May is designated to recognize the achievements and valuable contributions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. May was chosen to commemorate the immigration of the first Japanese to the United States in 1843, and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad in 1869, by primarily Chinese immigrants.
Those of Asian American Pacific Islander descent make up over five percent of the total uniformed military force.