Luncheon celebrates Native American Heritage Month Published Nov. 30, 2011 By Airman 1st Class Shawn Nickel 9th RW Public Affairs BEALE AIR FORCE BASE, Calif., -- Native American Heritage Month was brought to a close with a luncheon at the Recce Point Club Nov. 29. This year's guest speaker was Billy Mills, 10,000 meter gold medalist at the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo. He spoke about his experiences at the games, and the perceptions many people had of Native Americans. "It's the journey not the destination where our empowerment comes from and I commend you warriors today as you face many perceptions while you put yourselves in harm's way," Mills said. Mr. Mills also shared stories of his college running career where he was treated differently than other athletes because he is Native American. Another highlight of the luncheon was a traditional southern plains straight dance used in war ceremonies performed by Tech. Sgt. Thundercloud Hirajeta, heating, ventilation and air conditioning mechanic assigned to special duty, and Airman 1st Class Jeremy Foreman, 9th Civil Engineer Squadron structures flight. They used instruments and were dressed in traditional regalia used in powwows and dance competitions. The luncheon featured a buffet of "Indian Tacos" complete with chicken, beans and an array of sauces accompanied with fry bread. To end the luncheon Mills awarded medals to the winners of the Native American Heritage Month 5k held earlier in the month. "Billy Mills was my hero growing up and the reason I started running," said Rick Browning, 9th Medical Group director of quality services. "It was a great luncheon with a lot of meaning and truly a honor to meet Billy while being presented a medal from such an achieved American."