NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. — Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was a hero in my eyes; a hero who had a vision.
In today’s time, we tend to overlook what and who Dr. King was, and what he represented. He was a leader who was charged with nonconformity and he was able to bring about change — not with fists, but with words.
When we think of Dr. King, we often think of his famed “I have a dream” speech which spoke volumes, but far too often that’s where it stops. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is a day to commemorate his achievements and all he did for this great nation.
The word “leader” in our Air Force is a fairly common word which every Airmen has heard, but when I think of a leader, I think of Dr. King. A person who led not only with words, but with action. That’s what inspired me to be part of a cause bigger than myself.
The U.S. Air Force is full of diverse Airmen of different races, nationalities and creeds. It’s imperative that we come together to achieve one common goal: the mission! After all, the most important resources the Air Force has is the Airmen that drive it.
As an Equal Opportunity adviser, it’s humbling to be a part of leading the Nellis, Creech and the Nevada Test and Training Range Airmen in understanding how important it is to keep the human relations climate high.
For many of us, just like Dr. King, serving is a calling. Our nation is founded on the belief that all men are created equal, and I, just like many, hold the same views to that truth.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is a day to not only remember who this great person was, but to reflect on our own lives.
I ask myself these three questions every day: have I made someone smile? Did I make a difference? How can I better myself?
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. has inspired me greatly. Every day I wake up and attempt to walk in his big shoes. He is the reason why I get up in the morning and lace my boots.