The ceremony included a presentation, visitor audio system and a cake reducing in honor of the affect, contributions and accomplishments that Asian Individuals and Pacific Islanders have made in our Navy, armed forces and nation as an entire.
“My father at all times taught me to always remember my roots, and I admire him extra for it as a result of it allowed me to grasp my tradition and share these values with others within the office to create a stronger, extra cohesive group,” mentioned Lt. Joshua Matias, port operations officer, NSA Souda Bay. “I used to be at all times taught to be humble, make the most of each little bit of sources I’ve to perform objectives and to respect everybody, particularly my elders. As Capt. Odin J. Klug at all times says, we stand on the shoulders of giants. I’m proud that my Filipino roots can contribute to the Navy and America as an entire.”
Logistics Specialist 1st Class Earl Satcher, assigned to NSA Souda Bay, mentioned he’s utilized the basics of his Filipino upbringing, instilled in him by his mother, all through his Navy profession. He defined that the Filipino custom of respecting your elders straight pertains to navy bearing. He mentioned nice sponsorship is a direct reflection of Filipino hospitality and final, however not least “onerous work and sacrifice … like many Filipinos who’ve left the comforts of dwelling to pursue trades all around the world, we [Sailors] all have chosen to do the identical. Working distant from dwelling to make a greater lifestyle for our family members.”
After speaking about his tough journey from being born within the Philippines, transferring to the U.S. and becoming a member of the U.S. Navy, Machinist’s Mate 2nd Class Erian Francisco recalled one in every of his favourite Tagalog or Filipino expressions – mabuhay.
“On this one phrase, I might just about sum up my lived experiences as a Filipino and as American,” mentioned Francisco. “An individual that has been transplanted from one setting to a different but can nonetheless discover a approach to reside and even thrive true to the spirit of the expression. Mabuhay! Stay on!”
“All three of our audio system immediately actually embodied the theme of ‘Advancing Leaders By means of Alternative’,” mentioned Capt. Odin J. Klug, commanding officer, NSA Souda Bay. “Listening to your tales, it’s clear the Navy helped you alongside the best way, however I’d say solely a small bit. You needed to wish to be within the Navy, decide to the Navy and make the Navy your individual. For that, I thanks very a lot. I admire your sacrifice. All through historical past, the Navy has made the hassle to evolve and develop. Development and alter may be tough. Embracing that variety helps the Navy – helps our Navy – construct a stronger group. Daily is a brand new alternative.”
NSA Souda Bay is an operational ashore set up which permits and helps U.S., Allied, Coalition, and Companion nation forces to protect safety and stability within the European, African, and Central Command areas of accountability. For extra data, discover us on Fb at www.fb.com/NSASoudaBay.
