'Black History Month is time for reflection and recognition of the African American experience.'
Sgt. 1st Class Dennis W. Harris Jr. (Left), Ms. Takenya N. Harris (Middle), and Pfc. Shana Kay Brown (Right), HHC, USAG Daegu
DAEGU GARRISON — Black History Month 2015 may be drawing to an end, but the importance and appreciation for the time set aside every February to reflect on the accomplishments of so many African Americans will be celebrated long beyond the calendar date. Toward that end, the USAG Daegu and Area IV community, just like most of the Department of Defense, has long been a supporter of diversity. It is that diversity, and support that has always added to the strength of America.
It’s no secret that Black History Month is a time for reflection, and celebration, it’s also a well known fact that it is a time for testimony and recognition because of the extensive amount of stories and experiences that promote the values of a triumphant people, young and old. While names like Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcom X, and Rosa Parks may be more familiar to society, there are thousands of others who have made, and continue to make a difference. Many of those individuals have achieved greatness in the service of their country. They are men like Benjamin O. Davis, the Tuskegee Airmen, and Colin Powell.
Today, history and great accomplishments being made by a new generation of achievers. They are young men and women who like their forefathers, have heeded the call of their country, and are serving in various capacities around the world. Here in the USAG Daegu and Area IV community, one such individual is Sgt. 1st Class Dennis W. Harris Jr., NCOIC, 403rd AFSB, S-4. Both a Soldier, and a family man, Harris, who has served five tours in Iraq, is proud of his service, and inspired by the accomplishments and contributions of Black Americans before him.
Reflecting on the essence of Black History Month, Harris said, “Black History Month means a lot to me. It is a period in which we set aside time to really think of the contributions of African Americans to society. It’s a very inspirational time of reflection and really an honor. This is especially true when we think of men like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. He stands out because of the impact he made on change in America. He is someone who made a difference in the lives of Americans from all walks of life. I think that still today, he is one of the most influential characters among the African American people.”
Addressing the state of African Americans today--.especially their youth, Harris said, “Nowadays, the younger generation doesn’t appear to know enough about our history or even the essence of Black History Month. While there are many reasons for this, I think the greatest underlying reason has to do with not being in environments where they don’t have the opportunity to learn, or not having the kind of upbringing that ensures they seize available opportunities. It’s not always their fault. Therefore, we have to educate them about not only Black History Month, but also the meaning behind the month. To do that, we have to first educate ourselves.”
Recalling his own upbringing, Harris provided some insights into his journey. A native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the career-soldier stated, “My upbringing has guided my life. As you can imagine, there are diverse ethnic groups in Philadelphia. So, while growing up, I was able to meet many people of different ethnic groups. I formed great relationships and strong bonds with many of them. I think this helped build my character. When I joined the Army, I felt like I had what it takes to continue to build relationships and partnerships. That’s one of the things that’s great about serving in the military.”
Looking back over his career, the 403rd Soldier shared that there were people who pointed him and his career in the right direction. “There were three mentors who along the way were instrumental in helping me achieve my goals and aspirations. When I first came into the U.S. Army, 1st. Sgt. Frank Robinson was really inspirational. He always helped me to see the bigger picture. A second mentor was Staff Sgt. Nathan Bryant. He would never let me fall. CSM Michael Leech was also a great mentor. He was among the greatest. He would never let me quit. These individuals are a proud part of my history. Thanks to mentors like these, I was able to get what I needed to grow and develop, and to serve proudly as a Soldier and a man,” he said.
Reflecting on his years of service in uniform, and the importance of embracing differences, Harris said, “If there’s one message I would like to leave with everyone, it’s the message of pride and teamwork. Through these things we learn more about whom we are and how we can become better. It’s the same with Black History Month. When we know where we’ve been, we can appreciate where we are and where we’re going. Even to do that, we have to educate ourselves, and not judge wrongly. If you cannot understand something, read more about the history and do more research. I think when you do this, you’ll be surprised to learn of the sacrifices and the contributions people from all walks of life have made.”
