Enlisted Advisory Council hosts diversity celebration

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Kristina Overton
  • 136th Airlift Wing
The cultural diversity represented throughout the nation is reflected by Airmen serving in the Texas Air National Guard. Military members are required to wear the same uniform and stand unified in the mission, but in serving together, members also celebrate the uniqueness of their differences.

To promote the appreciation and understanding of diverse cultures, the 136th Airlift Wing Enlisted Advisory Council is hosting the Celebration of Nations Lunch-in. The event is scheduled for April 29 in the Wing Multi-Purpose Room from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. The celebration will feature different ethnic groups showcasing their cultures with educational materials, artistic displays and food.

“In the past we had what we called, ‘The Heritage Luncheon,’” said Tech. Sgt. Lisa Menken, 136th Mission Support Group contracting specialist and EAC event coordinator, “but we changed the name to ‘The Celebration of Nations Lunch-in’ because it helps us describe our intent a little more. The event is an opportunity for us as a wing to get together and celebrate our diversity and backgrounds—what make us special.”

The Enlisted Advisory Council is a wing organization dedicated to fostering mentorship, increasing Airman morale and encouraging volunteerism. Though members meet monthly to network and promote education and training, the primary goal of the EAC is to act as a liaison between the wing’s upper leadership and enlisted Airmen.

“People hear of EAC among their co-workers and peers but often don’t really know what it is or understand its purpose,” said Tech. Sgt. Nathan Legler, 136th Logistics Readiness Squadron customer support liaison and EAC president. “It’s a resource and outlet for Airmen to voice their concerns and feel like they can discuss issues in a room of their peers where they aren't judged. We share ideas and encourage creativity, open mindedness and personal development.

“That’s another reason why this event is important,” Legler said. “We want to make sure we are giving back to the wing and trying to make it a better place. The EAC facilitates an environment where are able to recognize our Airmen and celebrate the diversity of the wing. The recent incentive flights and wing lunch-in are great examples.”

To register a dish or reserve a group table for the lunch-in, contact Tech. Sgt. Lisa Menken at (817) 852-3454.

“The unit is full of Airmen from different places, with different nationalities and from different walks of life,” Menken said. “We are all in this [military] together, and it makes it extra special to be able to have a gathering where we can gain a greater appreciation of one another. I’m excited, and it will be a fun event.”

For more information on the 136th Airlift Wing, visit www.136.aw.ang.af.mil.