Fort Jackson's Commander Brigadier General Abraham J. Turner was the featured speaker of the 3rd Annual Columbia Field Office's 2004 Black History Celebration on February 25, 2004. BG Turner assumed command on January 9, 2004, of the Army's largest training center. Approximately 45 percent of the Army's recruits, or 42,000 soldiers a year, receive basic training at Fort Jackson. Some 13,000 troops are assigned to the fort, which also employs 1,900 civilians and has an annual payroll of $500 million. His visit to the Strom Thurmond Federal Building was historic in that he is a native South Carolinian and the first African American appointed to command Fort Jackson, SC.

Brigadier General Abraham J. Turner, Commander, Fort Jackson, SC speaks at the Strom Thurmond Federal Building

During his speech, BG Turner credited much of the success he has enjoyed during his nearly 28-year Army career to a host of mentors. He also added that those mentors reflected the diversity of the Army. "Black, White, Hispanic, Native American, Asian - I've had them all," General Turner said, "I did not make it here by myself."

The 49-year old Mount Pleasant, SC, native is also a graduate of South Carolina State University. He states that he wants to foster a strong relationship between the fort and the Midlands. "Fort Jackson is a very important part of this community," General Turner said. "We're right there with everybody else in this community. I want everyone to understand that." The General intends to be out in the community as well, telling the "Fort Jackson Story."

While he hasn't been immune to prejudice in his life, General Turner said he refuses to let it stop him. "I didn't let those obstacles stand in my way. I didn't listen to those who told me I couldn't succeed because of the color of my skin."