Community gathers together to celebrate civil rights achievements

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Alessandra N. Gamboa
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Ellsworth community members gathered at the Freedom Chapel, Feb. 26, to reflect upon past civil rights achievements and those who made them.

The inspirational gospel service production, entitled "An Evening to Remember," featured video clips of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., along with performances by Airmen, who sang songs about strength in the face of adversity, reenacted historical civil rights events such as Rosa Parks' refusal to give up her bus seat to a white passenger, and gave speeches about the roles and achievements of Dr. King and President Barack Obama.

Kenleen Pringle, director of the event, commended all those who contributed to the success of the event.

"It took a lot of work to put this evening together, but for those of us who worked together on this project, we know our rehearsals were filled with laughter," Mrs. Pringle said. "I had a lot of fun working with all of you."

Members of the local and base community were present, including Chaplain (Maj.) James Parrish, 28th Bomb Wing chaplain, who thanked all those who attended or helped make the event a success.

"Rosa Parks, Dr. King and many other brave, determined men and women led us to where we are today," he said. "These unique individuals accepted the mission God put in their hearts. They accepted this was their role in life. I challenge you to look inside your heart and ask yourself, what is your mission? Where are you leading?"

Chaplain Parrish went on to commend those individuals for all of their hard work and for making the world a better place by setting a positive example for children.

At the conclusion of the event, the audience, cast and crew applauded and made their way out of the sanctuary to the reception area, many wet-eyed and smiling, moments after Dr. King's words echoed from a video screen above the pulpit.

"I have seen the promised land... I may not get there with you, but I want you to know, tonight, that we as a people will get to the Promised Land." - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.