18th Wing remembers Martin Luther King Jr.

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Malia Jenkins
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan --  Martin Luther King Jr. has had a major impact on American history with the role he played in ending the legal segregation of African-American citizens.

During the week leading up to Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Kadena residents celebrated his life through various activities, including a blood drive, a luncheon, and a 5K run that drew more than 140 participants.

While giving blood to help save lives Jan. 17, donors watched a 10-minute video about MLK's life and struggle for equality a generation ago.

"He fought against insurmountable odds to do what very few people could have done," said DeDee McCue, an Air Force Reserve veteran. "I could not imagine being hosed down with water, attacked by dogs, or told I have to use a different stall because of the color of my skin."

The video was also played at the luncheon Jan. 18 which marked the end of the campaign to honor a man who made it possible for an African-American to be elected president of the United States.

"I've 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," said Martin Luther King Jr. on his last crusade.