Warriors emerge, answer nation’s call

  • Published
  • By Capt. Christopher Bowyer-Meeder
  • U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center Public Affairs
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. --  

The warrior spirit that embodies many Native Americans, is the same ethos that is invoked in the opening lines of the Airman’s Creed: “I am an American Airman. I am a warrior. I have answered my nation’s call.”

The Oklahoma City Pow Wow Club hosted the 71st annual Indian Hills Pow Wow in Oklahoma City, Okla., July 24, 2021. The Pow Wow is an annual event where tribal members share aspects of their culture to people who may otherwise not have the opportunity. This includes cultural food, Regalia, traditional dance and music. It’s also an opportunity to celebrate victories, honor their cultural traditions, families, veterans and future generations.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Mark Camerer, U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center commander was invited to attend the event. During his visit, he met with more than 38 tribal leaders, along with new recruits who decided to join the Air Force.

“The Pow Wow was a great opportunity to meet the men and women who are going to lead our Air Force into the future,” Camerer said. “When we talk about accelerating change, these are the brilliant and diverse minds that will help us accomplish that goal.”

Many of the new recruits attended the Pow Wow with relatives that have previously served in the military. Their attendance left the generational spirit of service on full display.

Camerer traveled with four U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center Airmen who have ties to Native American heritage. These members were able to relay their unique perspectives of service, as well as share insights into some of the opportunities the Air Force affords to all service members.

The new recruits who recited the oath of enlistment now join another family. One whose name will be displayed on their chest, invoking their warrior spirits. A name that joins them with less than one percent of Americans who also raised their hand and swore the same oath – U.S. Air Force.