Barksdale celebrates MLK Day

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman La'Shanette V. Garrett
  • 2d Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  The Barksdale African American Heritage Committee hosted a Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. commemorative service and breakfast Jan.15 in the Chapel 2 Annex.

More than 40 individuals participated in the event as an opportunity to remember the work and life of Dr. King.

The day started off with a presentation of the Colors by Barksdale Honor Guard, singing of the National Anthem by Airman 1st Class Megan Harvey, a musical selection by the Barksdale Chapel Choir, followed by guest speaker Bishop Shaun D. Cooper, founder of New Creations Family Church in Shreveport.

Bishop Cooper, also an accomplished musician, producer and recording artist, entertained the audience with the playing of an original song titled "Tranquility" on his saxophone prior to addressing the crowd.

"One of the purposes of a legacy is to establish something great on the earth," said Bishop Cooper. "A good man leaves an inheritance for his children's children. If we are truly going to live the legacy of Dr. King or any other predecessors, then we must be intentional in doing so," he stated.

Leaders can all learn a great lesson from Dr. King, according to Bishop Cooper. "He possessed a great capacity for leadership. He was proven by the test of racism, the conflict of political injustice and hate."

Bishop Cooper said great leaders know when the chips are down and all else seems lost, it's the cry of greatness that refuses to let things remain as they are--the cry of greatness that reaches down into the bottom of the soul and finds unused determination.

"One must first build a dynasty, then prosperity, then a legacy," stated Bishop Cooper. "A true legacy is not what one has done in their lifetime but rather what he has left behind that is worthy of duplication."

Partakers left the event with a notable quote from Dr. King, given by Col. Rob Huber, 2d Mission Support Group commander, which he said represents the heart of 2d Bomb Wing Airmen.

"The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy," said Colonel Huber. "This is a time of challenge for our nation. At Barksdale Air Force Base every day, we are standing for freedom and justice."