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JBSA News
NEWS | Jan. 23, 2020

BAMC observes Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

By Jason W. Edwards Brooke Army Medical Center Public Affairs

Staff, patients and family members observed Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Jan. 22 at Brooke Army Medical Center at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston.

“Dr. King’s pursuit of freedom, justice, equality and tolerance – regardless of race, creed or color – continues to be an inspiration to us all,” said Army Brig. Gen. Wendy L. Harter, BAMC commanding general, in opening the ceremony.

“We owe Dr. King and so many other pioneers of the civil rights movement a tremendous debt of gratitude. If it were not for their unwavering commitment, our nation would be a much different place.”

BAMC’s Command Sgt. Maj. Thomas Oates was the guest speaker for the event. Oates talked about Dr. King’s perseverance and his conviction to stand on his dream.

“I came to ask you, BAMC, what will you stand on when things get rough?” Oates said. “What will you stand on when the going gets tough? And what will you stand on when you’ve had enough?”

Oates went on to talk about the importance of imagination in rising above adversity.

“Dr. King was beaten, called ‘negro,’ stabbed and slain, however he had a belief beyond his torment,” Oates said. “He found himself beaten, but saw himself healed. His imagination had him see a better outcome. His imagination allowed him to see this nation rising up and living out the true meaning of his dream. His imagination allowed him to see his four children living in a nation where they are not judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.”

Army Command Sgt. Maj. Gabriel Camacho, BAMC Warrior Transition Battalion, closed the ceremony by highlighting Dr. King’s dedication to service.

“I’d like you to remember Dr. King’s most famous quote,” Camacho said. “’What are you doing for others?’”