Luncheon held in honor of MLK Day

  • Published
  • By By Airman 1st Class Eileen Payne
  • 49th Wing Public Affairs
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  A luncheon was held at the Desert Sands Enlisted Club Jan. 13 in honor of a man who dedicated most of his life to being selfless and dignified more than five decades ago. His legacy is also recognized with a national holiday -- Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Members of Team Holloman, including 49th Wing leadership, congregated in the ballroom of the club to have lunch and listen to the event's guest speaker, the Rev. Warren L. Robinson.

As a long-standing member of the African American Methodist Episcopal family and Executive Director of Otero County United Way, the Rev. Robinson is recognized for his abundance of accomplishments throughout his life for the civil rights movement.

An explanation was given by the Rev. Robinson of a brief timeline and what gave Dr. King his national reputation and charismatic notoriety.

"Dr. King was a brilliant man who took on many struggles, attempting to be a leader during turbulent and trying times," the Reverend said. "He gave his time and his life, so that men and women would have the opportunity to enjoy the basic and dignified freedoms of this country. He sacrificed so much of his own sustenance and peace of mind, so that we could come together in brotherhood and unity."

Displayed throughout the ballroom were colored pictures and hand cut-outs made by Holloman Elementary and Holloman Middle School students in honor of the holiday.

Chief Master Sgt. Gerardo Tapia, 49th WG command chief, also spoke at the luncheon to thank the Rev. Robinson on behalf of Team Holloman.

"The Wing leadership would like to thank Rev. Robinson for coming out here and showing his recognition for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day," Chief Tapia said. "It's a constant reminder to us and all the Airmen here of the diversity that we embrace today ... it's what makes it so special, and a great appreciation of everything he stood for."

The Rev. Robinson ended his speech by thanking Team Holloman for giving him the opportunity to speak at the luncheon and Dr. King for all he did.

"Thank you Brother Martin, you have showed us what true love and leadership is all about," he said.