For African-American soldiers across the world celebrating Black History Month, February is a special time to reflect on how it hasn't been very long since desegregation in the military ended in 1948. But for Master Sgt. Richard Bryant of Elizabethtown, North Carolina, February is a month that means much more than that.
Master Sgt. Bryant was raised by his grandfather, who inspired him to join the military. He's currently serving overseas in Kuwait. On Valentine's day, he will celebrate his 21st anniversary with his wife, Mary, who is home in Elizabethtown.
"For my 22 years with the military, I've been gone for 50 months," says Master Sgt. Bryant. "I've missed a lot of anniversaries and birthdays." He'll miss Mary's birthday this year as well. Her birthday is also in the month of February.
"Mary is the hero of the Bryant family. She's raised four wonderful kids. She's my best friend and a true gift," says Master Sgt. Bryant.
Another everyday gift for Bryant is his daughter, Specialist Avian Bryant, currently serving in Afghanistan.
"I didn't like the military at first," says Spc. Bryant. "I even wanted to quit. But I stuck with it because I didn't want to let my father down. So I kept with it and now I'm glad I did."
"It's just an incredible pleasure to serve with her. I remember I wanted to make my father proud by joining the military," says Master Sgt. Bryant, "and just knowing that she will be able to receive the same training and skills to help her throughout life makes me prouder than anything."
Master Sgt. Bryant has received awards including a Bronze Star Medal for his contributions during Operation Iraqi Freedom. But he says a day with his father who passed in 2007 out ranks any other honor.
"He looked at me and said 'Son, I'm proud of you and the man you've become,' and that for me was better than any recognition I could have gotten from anyone." he says.
Master Sgt. Bryant uses that moment to remember to praise his children. "I remember when I was a confused young kid and looking for some direction. So, I just know how important it is for parents to let their kids know how they feel and give them positive encouragement."
"I want to thank my dad for everything he did." says Spc. Bryant. "Pushing me to join the army has really allowed me to meet some great people who have influenced me in a big way."
Being raised by his grandparents who grew up in a time of racial inequality, Sgt. Master Bryant knows the importance of recognizing February as Black History Month. However, he says the other men and women protecting Americans only see one color.
"We see no color other than green." he says. "What I see is an American that is stepping up to the plate and saying if not me, then who."
Master Sgt. Bryant has faced enemies on the streets of Baghdad. But the smiling faces of strangers fuel his motivation.
"Being stopped at the airport or just by a stranger anywhere and to hear them say 'thank you' gives me a feeling you can't describe."
