SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month is celebrated during the entire month of May, recognizing the contributions and influence of Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. The 932nd Airlift Wing recognizes this culture, its diversity, and how it makes the force stronger. In this spotlight article, we are highlighting Tsecky-Anna Edquid, 932nd Airlift Wing commander's executive secretary.
- What is your job?
932nd Airlift Wing commander’s executive secretary
- Tell us about your Asian or Pacific Islander Heritage.
I was born in Manila, Philippines and moved to America when I was 15 years old. My family settled in Virginia Beach, Virginia and as a Pacific Islander, I loved being so close to the beach. There’s a big Filipino community in Virginia and I was fortunate to have met and be surrounded by Filipino-Americans. They all made me feel right at home and made my transition to a new way of life easier. That community became my home away from home.
- What does Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month mean to you?
Celebrating AAPI Month is a way to highlight the rich and vibrant culture of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. It doesn’t only educate others about different food, customs, and traditions but it’s an immersion experience. Most of all, I think it’s a great means to be proud and celebrate one’s heritage and background.
- What's one aspect of your heritage that you feel very strongly about?
The food! Filipino cuisine is a hodgepodge of different ethnic influence. Our dishes are heavily influenced by Chinese, Spanish and other Pacific Islands. Our most famous dishes are probably pancit, lumpia, chicken adobo and lechon, to name a few.
- What Asian or Pacific Islander public figure, past or present, inspires you and why?
Disney was a big part of my childhood and Lea Salonga is an inspiration for me. She’s the singing voice of Mulan and Jasmine from Aladdin and headlined numerous successful Broadway shows such as Miss Saigon and Les Misérables throughout her career. Although I wasn’t blessed with a golden voice like hers, nonetheless her success story is such an inspiration to work hard, persevere and not be afraid to chase after your dreams. After all, seeing a Filipina as talented, successful, and iconic as her, makes me proud to be one.