Team Pete remembers civil rights leader Published Jan. 20, 2009 By Capt. Toni Tones 21st Space Wing Public Affairs PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- Members of Team Peterson came together to pay tribute and reflect on the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Jan. 14 during an observance ceremony at the Peterson Chapel. Guest speaker Col. Gerald D. Curry, Air Force Space Command director of Security, took the audience on a historical journey of Dr. King's life, and highlighting events dating as far back as the slave trade era, and challenging attendees to further the civil rights leader's dream. Following a standing-ovation performance of "Amazing Grace" by Tech Sgt. Victoria Bruyette and the Air Force Academy ensemble Blue Steel, Colonel Curry commanded the audience's attention by reciting "Standing on the Shoulders" by Joyce Johnson Rouse before "reflecting on the brilliance of a leader." In reflecting on Dr. King and the historical significance of his life, we must look at the struggle of our nation and an ugly past, said Colonel Curry. This past included slavery, racial segregation, disenfranchisement, exploitation and violence. The American civil rights movement, cited by most historians as having occurred between 1955 and 1968, was aimed at abolishing racial discrimination against African Americans and restoring suffrage in Southern states. The struggle was more than basic civil rights; it was about fundamental issues of freedom, respect, dignity, and economic and social equal opportunity. "Dr. King preached equality of all mankind, not just black people," said Colonel Curry. "There are some who romanticize the civil rights era, but there's nothing romantic about that time. Dr. King and the other civil rights advocates were committed to give their all." Dr. King did that by giving his life on April 4, 1968 in Memphis, Tenn. "Dr. King was not an isolated case," said Colonel Curry. "He was an extension of the brilliance of our past. The civil rights movement occurred from the struggles of our ancestors dating as far back as slavery. Back then it took the slave ship 30 to 45 days to make it across the ocean; only the strong survived the trip. It was those people who birthed our forefathers like Dr. King and other great African Americans like Frederick Douglas and Oprah Winfrey." Colonel Curry discussed the intelligence and innovativeness of the slaves and how they've shaped today's society. "Music is hope to hopeless people and strength to those in need," he said. "Slaves communicated through songs, known today as old negro spirituals. They used them as a promise and for hope; and we still use them today," as he belted out an a-cappella rendition of Walk Together Children. "Martin Luther King left us a legacy built on the shoulders of phenomenal ancestors," added Colonel Curry. "Let's embrace this legacy and commit to make a difference, to make a change in our communities, and provide an opportunity for someone less fortunate. What are you going to do with it now?" challenged the colonel. The program ended with another music selection by Blue Steel, followed by remarks by Col. Jay Raymond, 21st Space Wing commander and the benediction by Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Randall Kitchens, 21st SW Chaplain. "The ceremony was very informative," said Staff Sgt. Jack Needham, 21st Communications Squadron tech controller. "It educated me more on some of the great things that Martin Luther King, Jr. has done for our nation as a whole." "To remember/observe Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., not only on January 15th, but on every calendar day is my opportunity to reflect," added 2nd Lt. James Harris, 21st Forces Support Squadron. "I have the opportunity to be a successful black man and American citizen, largely on the account of sacrifices made by a righteous American man who fought for all human liberty." The program's success rested on the work of Ms. Wynona James and Staff Sgt. Tenea Basinger, MLK observance coordinators. "The MLK ceremony was a collaborative effort to honor and celebrate the life and accomplishments of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.," said Sergeant Basinger. "This observance could not have been possible without the combined efforts of the Peterson AFB Chapel, PAFB National Observance Committee, the Blue Steel Combo from the USAFA Band and Col. Gerald D. Curry. We've received a lot of positive feedback about this year's ceremony and everyone that participated in this event made it 'that' much better."