AUSTIN, Texas — The Army story cannot be told without recognizing the tremendous contributions of Black Americans to our country and our history.

“Black history is American history,” said Maj. Gen. Kevin D. Admiral, commanding general of the 1st Cavalry Division.

Admiral traveled to Austin from Fort Cavazos, Texas, on Feb. 13 to speak to Army Futures Command (AFC) personnel about the legacy of African American service in the U.S. Army, including how Black leaders helped shape today’s military. His remarks were part of a Black History Month educational event and cultural celebration hosted by AFC to highlight the significance of the annual observance.

“Black History Month is important. It’s important to honor and recognize those African Americans who have contributed to the shaping and the defense of this great nation. It gives all of us the opportunity to learn the stories of those we may not have known much about before. It’s an opportunity to salute those who’ve stood up and served this country despite unequal treatment in the past. And lastly, it’s the opportunity to honor the quarter million Black Americans who proudly serve America today,” Admiral said.

Black History Month occurs each February and seeks to spotlight the achievements of Black Americans in the United States. This year’s theme, “African Americans and the Arts,” offers a unique opportunity to explore the many contributions of Black artists and Veterans.

AFC’s salute to Black History Month included musical renditions by the Huston-Tillotson University choir, which performed hits by pioneering Motown Records groups like the Temptations and the Supremes, and a cultural food tasting that involved samplings of local barbecue and other specialty eats.

The observance also devoted time to remembering Soldiers like Lt. James R. Europe, a bandleader for the 369th Infantry Regiment and prominent ragtime and early jazz musician in the 1910s, and Staff Sgt. Leonora Hull Brown, who led the first all-Black female band in the Army during World War II, for their exemplary talents and service.

Presenters pointed out that Black Soldiers have answered the call to fight and win our nation’s wars since the Revolutionary War, and that 94 African Americans have received the Medal of Honor for their valor.

“When America needed servicemen and women with courage, determination and patriotism, when America needed Soldiers willing to defend our freedom, African Americans stood ready to serve with a desire to earn the same respect, honor and rights outlined in our Constitution and enjoyed by our compatriots,” Admiral said.

“We owe it to ourselves and those who will follow us to learn about those African Americans who made history, who served against odds, all too often in positions below their skill level, and whose service helped lay the foundation for the Army we have today.”

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The Army is proud to highlight its longstanding commitment to being a diverse, equal and inclusive organization where all have an opportunity to be all they can be.

To learn more about how the Department of Defense is honoring Black History Month, visit: https://www.defense.gov/Spotlights/Black-History-Month/