TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. —
In recognition of November’s Native American Heritage Month, the 552nd Air Management Wing welcomed college students with indigenous heritage to share of their mission on Nov. 3.
Youth from native nations toured an E-3 Sentry plane and discovered in regards to the 552nd’s mission. The keynote speaker for the occasion was Capt. Jonathan Witherspoon, a 552nd Operations Help Squadron air battle supervisor and member of the Navajo nation.
Witherspoon, who’s the primary in his household to serve within the armed forces, leaned on the significance of illustration of Native People within the armed forces.
“The navy is a superb avenue to serve and study extra about how we will serve this nice nation,” Witherspoon stated. “I wish to encourage Indigenous youth to chase after profession alternatives that can assist them be future leaders for his or her respective nations.”
The occasion additionally included a show of art work submitted by college students as a part of an artwork contest difficult them to show their heritage and concepts of navy service.
Abria Hamilton Youngbird from the Navajo nation was chosen because the winner and had her art work displayed on the E-3 Sentry that was unveiled in the course of the occasion.
“I hope my story will assist set an instance to the Indigenous youth that it’s potential to chase after your careers and be a part of your house,” stated Witherspoon.
The mission within the 552nd Air Management Wing is to coach, develop, and make use of combat-ready Airmen and weapons programs to ship decisive Command of the Air supporting America’s nationwide safety priorities.
