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Sheppard honors Dr. King with MLK Jr. Luncheon

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Valerie Hosea
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  A man who lived during the worst time of civil rights violations but also experienced the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will share his story Jan. 12 at the Sheppard Club.

Dale Long, a survivor of the Birmingham Bombings in 1963 from Birmingham, Ala., will be the guest speaker during the Annual MLK Jr. Luncheon at the club beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Valerie Berry, African American Heritage Committee vice president and luncheon coordinator, said Mr. Long was the perfect speaker for the luncheon because he can tell his story of how it was before the Civil Rights movement, and how the country has changed since then.

"We chose Mr. Long as the speaker this year because as a survivor of the Birmingham Bombings, he is a man who has experienced both ends of the spectrum," she said. "He's seen both extreme discrimination and the outcome of Dr. King's legacy."

Tech. Sgt. Jeremy Stewart, AAHC president, said the holiday has much significance.

"This day symbolizes the great progression we have made as a nation in getting away from that discriminatory mindset," he said. "Dr. King's movement heavily influenced all of these changes."

Sergeant Stewart said the luncheon is an event to look forward to.

"Those attending can look forward to a high-quality presentation honoring Dr. King's life, achievements and legacy. It will let the general public know about some of the things he strived for, such as the freedom of all races," Sergeant Stewart said.

Sergeant Stewart and Mrs. Berry say although the day is set aside to honor Dr. King, it's more about celebrating his dream and accomplishments.

"The purpose of MLK Jr. Day is to remind people not to just think about color but people as a whole. That's how life should be. That is what Dr. King strived for," Sergeant Stewart said.

"He gave his life for the freedom and equality of all people. And for that, we'll always be grateful and honor him," Mrs. Berry said.