Anniston Army Depot

Inspiring change in the continued progress for racial equity and justice

Isaac Albarran | ANAD EEO

In February, we celebrate Black History Month as a way to recognize the many contributions that Black Americans have made to our nation. The official observation of Black History Month started in 1986 with the passage of Public Law 99-244. However, Black History Month was first proposed in 1915 by Carter G. Woodson, an alumnus of the University of Chicago, after participating in a national celebration on the fiftieth anniversary of emancipation sponsored by the state of Illinois. The idea of a month to celebrate Black History expanded in the 1960s to Negro History Week, which led the way to what was officially recognized as Black History Month in 1978. The month long celebration recognizes the achievements and impact Blacks have had on the history of the United States.

The focus of this year’s observance is “Inspiring Change”. This theme highlights the continued progress made in the struggle for racial equity and justice.

During Black History Month, the ANAD Office of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) will showcase the achievements and contributions of Black Americans to the Army as a way to highlight the Army’s commitment to diversity, equality and inclusion.

On this day and every day, the Army pays tribute to these men and women who have made significant contributions to every field of human endeavor. We honor those who, past and present, have inspired change.

Sgt. William Henry Johnson
Sgt. William Henry Johnson part of the “Harlem Hellfighters,” performed heroically in the first Black unit of U.S. Army Soldiers to engage in combat in World War I. For his battlefield valor, he was the first U.S. Soldier in World War I to be awarded the Croix de guerre France’s highest award for valor.
To read more about Johnson’s inspiring story here, https://www.army.mil/medalofhonor/johnson/.

Lt. Col. Charity Adams Earley
Lt. Col. Charity Adams Earley served as the highest Black woman officer during World War II to command the first battalion of Black women to overseas in World War II, the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. Earley also fought against segregation in the Army and helped open doors for African American women in the military.
To read more about Earley’s inspiring story: https://www.thenmusa.org/biographies/charity-adams-earley/.

ANAD’s EEO has planned a luncheon in commemoration of Black History Month. The luncheon is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 23 at the Physical Fitness Center, Building 206. Guest speaker for the event is Mayor Timothy Ragland of Talladega, Alabama. The lunch menu is pulled pork or chicken with baked beans, coleslaw, roll and drink. Tickets are available in the EEO, Building 100 through Wednesday, February 8.

References:

Memo: 2023 Department of Defense Black History Month Observance, Gilbert R. Cisneros, Jr., 1/30/23