Senior Master Sgt. Mary Anne Chambers, 8th Comptroller Squadron superintendent, shows off her Filipino flag mask during the Diversity and Inclusion Day at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea April 12, 2021. Participants enjoyed cultural performances and food, as well as discussions and activities related to the day's theme, 'Heritage through Diversity.' (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Will Bracy) ()
KUNSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea -- The 8th Fighter Wing “Wolf Pack” hosted a Seventh Air Force Diversity & Inclusion Day, themed “Heritage through Diversity,” at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, April 12, 2021.
Organized by the wing’s Diversity & Inclusion team, participants celebrated the diverse cultures, backgrounds, and experiences representative of 7th Air Force personnel across the Korean Peninsula.
“Along our diversity and inclusion journey, we’ve attempted multiple avenues to provide an opportunity to our members to speak their mind,” said Col. Christopher Hammond, 8th FW commander. “What I’ve learned is that everyone has a story, and no one story is the same; which is all the more reason we continue to cultivate and demand a culture of dignity and respect for the members of the Wolf Pack.”
Through conversation and activities that involved audience participation, leaders emphasized the importance of actively listening to different perspectives.
“Sometimes we have the mission pulling us in one direction while we still have personal issues to address,” said Deborah Prescott, 8th Force Support Squadron Airman & Family Readiness Center flight chief. “Be prepared to stop and speak, and/or listen.”
In an opening video, Lt. Gen. Scott Pleus, 7th Air Force commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Philip Hudson, 7th Air Force command chief, explained the importance of embracing diversity.
“By sharing our perspectives and embracing our differences, we’re taking steps to becoming a more inclusive force,” Pleus said. “I encourage you to share your unique experiences and listen to the stories of others with an open mind and a desire to reach understanding.”
From squadron heritage exhibits, to cultural performances and food booths, participants were reminded to value diversity - both past and present - as the fight for inclusion continues.
“Diversity is strategic,” said Master Sgt. Robert Ivey, 8th FW chief of Equal Opportunity. “Culture change is required to foster an environment where diversity can flourish. We’re on the right track, but progress is a slow thing.
“Diversity is a military necessity,” Ivey said. “It enhances Air Force capabilities and warfighter skills.”
In a closing video, Gen. Charles “CQ” Brown, Wolf 46 and Chief of Staff of the Air Force, shared his insight and encouragement with the men and women of the Wolf Pack.
“We recognize the strength that comes with diversity,” Brown said. “We will keep working to move barriers and remove biases. Be brave enough to be who you are, and also take the time to know each other.”
