Continuing Dr. King's Legacy in the Modern Air Force

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Nathanial Hartman
  • 17th Training Wing Public Affairs

Actions speak louder than words. However, words and action are often used simultaneously to make a difference in the outcome of any specific endeavor.

Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. knew this, and thus he crafted his thoughts in a poignant fashion. This is most evident in his “I Have a Dream” speech delivered at the March on Washington. Great leaders motivate others with their words to carry out the action for their cause. There is no wonder this is why he is widely recognized as the great orator of the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s.

In his sermon “Loving Your Enemies,” Dr. King reflected that “Hate multiplies hate, violence multiplies violence, and toughness multiplies toughness in a descending spiral of destruction.” The only way to change humanity for the better is through loving, nonviolent, gentle means. As such, he and others in the Civil Rights movement committed themselves to nonviolent resistance.

Fast-forward to today, where social media influencers and news networks pander to the emotions of their readers.  These words provoke various emotions, both healthy and destructive, to numerous people driving the narratives of the public. Consequently, these media entities search for more “likes,” views, or subscriptions in the quest to be an “influencer” and ultimately monetary gain. The pursuit of generations ago and the principles that Dr. King stood for have seemingly become forgotten. 

I hardly see myself as much of an influencer. My social posts are far too infrequent, of little substance to others, and for much of my existence I have been unable to find the exact words in situations I’ve encountered. I often envy those who have a way with words. Not being a man of many words, I am compelled to being a man of action to elicit change. 

Dr. King motivated millions with his words and displayed enduring patience through a spirit of meekness in his protest against inequality. So what do the lessons from nearly 60 years ago have for warfighters of today?  Leaders are called to affect change, either through communication or through action, but we cannot sit idly by and say, “Who cares what others say/do?”  Now is a time for courage and commitment.  Our 22nd Chief of Staff, Gen Charles Q. Brown Jr., has outlined how we will combat the “competitive and dangerous strategic environment” that will define the coming decade and possibly further in his action orders delivered late December. “We need to ensure the way we place our Airmen in specific jobs offering opportunities for advancement fosters a diverse and inclusive culture promoting dignity and fairness.”

January 18, 2021, is not a “day off” as it is the only national holiday recognized as a day of service.  How are you going to incite change in your workspaces and communities? Please take this opportunity to compile your thoughts, contemplate their impact, and express yourself as Dr. King would have. Be a real influencer.