WC Missouri News

May is Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Heritage Month, celebrating the legacy and contributions of these communities in the United States. This celebration unites Airmen from around the world at Whiteman Air Force Base. Among them are U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Brendan Siuloa from American Samoa and Senior Airman Ernest Ray Ranan, who was born and raised in Italy to a Filipino mother and an American father.

Like many Airmen, they had different reasons for joining the Air Force. "My main reason for joining was the naturalization process, and then after being in the military I realized I like my job and the people I work with," said Ranan.

Siuloa was inspired by family members who served before him. He first spoke to a recruiter while visiting his sister’s duty station in Stuttgart, Germany.

Both are members of the Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Association (APIDAA) at Whiteman AFB, a group that provides a sense of belonging to Airmen serving far from their families. Siuloa noted that events held by APIDAA, where members share activities and food from their culture, help create a home-like environment on base.

“It’s important to build a network and meet new people who you can share your culture with,” said Ranan.

Ranan, the club president, joined APIDAA upon his arrival at Whiteman AFB. He aims to involve as many people as possible, including those outside his cultural background who wish to learn about it.

Siuloa has actively contributed to this goal through his role at the 509th Force Support Squadron Welcome Center, assisting new arrivals on base. "I got to meet a lot of people and invite them to events," he said. “Being part of the club gives members a community of support here on base.”

The diversity within its ranks is one of the U.S. Air Force's most valuable assets. Groups like APIDAA not only help integrate diverse Airmen into military life but also ensure their cultural traditions are preserved.