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News | Jan. 25, 2017

‘A day on… Not a day off’: Distribution Headquarters celebrates the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

By Brianne M. Bender DLA Distribution Public Affairs

DLA Distribution Headquarters celebrated Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr’s., legacy during the inaugural program hosted by the new DLA Distribution Multicultural Committee on Jan. 19. 

This year’s theme, “A day on, not a day off,” best captures the essence of King’s life. He was a man who devoted his life to the betterment of the world around him. He once said “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: ’what are you doing for others?’”

DLA Distribution commanding general, Army Brig. Gen. John S. Laskodi welcomed everyone in attendance, “It is a great honor to be here with you to celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. We remember Dr. King for his commitment to equality, justice, humanity and social change.”

One of the highlights of the event was Ramona French, a supervisory supply specialist from DLA Distribution Future Operations who wrote and performed a skit entitled “Dream Your Impossible Dream.”

The events keynote speaker was DLA Chaplain, Army Col. Carleton Birch. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Cedarville University, a Master of Divinity from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and a Master of Science in marriage and family therapy from Columbus State University. Ordained and endorsed for chaplain ministry by Converge Worldwide, Birch has served military chapels all over the world.

“I believe Dr. King provided guidance 50-years ago that can map a way forward for us today,” Birch said. “Dr. King knew that for any real change to occur, we had to focus on people. People were the key to programs, technology or force of will. People have the ability to come together, to support each other and to lift a fallen one up during down times.”

Additionally, music was provided by the Red Land High School octet. Under the direction of Ms. Caitlin Shepski, the group performed the national anthem, “Hallelujah” written by Leonard Cohen and “Nothin’ Gonna Stumble My Feet,” written by Greg Gilpin and John Parker. The selections chosen reflected the spirit of unity and equality promoted by King.