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ROUTINE

R 112015Z MAY 21 MID200000845063U

FM SECNAV WASHINGTON DC

TO ALNAV
SECNAV WASHINGTON DC
CNO WASHINGTON DC
CMC WASHINGTON DC

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ALNAV 037/21

MSGID/GENADMIN/SECNAV WASHINGTON DC/-/MAY//

SUBJ/ASIAN-AMERICAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH//

RMKS/1.  May is Asian-American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, a 
chance to reflect on the many important contributions of the AAPI community 
throughout the history of our force, often in the face of rampant 
discrimination and prejudice.

2.  Our nation is a Pacific nation, and Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders 
have played a central role in the history of our nation and our Navy.

3.  We remember Marines like Major Kurt Chew-Een Lee, a Chinese American 
whose heroic leadership helped secure the landing at Inchon which turned the 
tide of the Korean War.  Additionally, we call to mind Sailors like 
Lieutenant Susan Ahn Cuddy, a trailblazing Korean American Gunnery Officer 
during World War II.

4.  As we look back on these heroes of the past, our entire force stands in 
admiration and appreciation of every Asian-American and Pacific Islander who 
stands the watch today.  We stand united in fierce opposition to any 
expression of prejudice, discrimination, or hatred, including remarks or 
statements that demean or encourage violence towards any member of these 
vibrant American communities.  It is an honor to serve at your side.

5.  Released by the Honorable Thomas W. Harker, Acting Secretary of the 
Navy.//

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