MLK observance today at base chapel Published Jan. 11, 2013 By Tech. Sgt. Shanco Williams 34th Combat Communications Squadron TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Team Tinker will honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his vision for a non-violent movement during an observance from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. today at the Tinker Chapel. This year's theme, "Understanding the Dream," is targeted to encourage all members of Team Tinker to embrace relevant and meaningful dialogue about diversity in all major areas of activity -- economics, education, entertainment, labor and law. This year marks the 27th anniversary of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. national holiday, which began in 1986 after being signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1983. On the evening of April 3, 1968, Dr. King delivered a prophetic speech. Emotionally determined, he spoke of a future vision of America, not yet realized by those within the sound of his voice. Only hours earlier, his flight had been delayed because of a terrorist bomb threat. Dr. King expressed his thoughts on his own mortality while giving this speech, "And He's allowed me to go up to the mountain. And I've looked over, and I've seen the Promised Land. I may not get there with you. But I want you to know tonight, that we as a people will get to the Promised Land. And so I'm happy tonight; I'm not worried about anything; I'm not fearing any man. Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord." Shortly after this speech Dr. King went back to his hotel room to rest. At 6:01 p.m. April 4, 1968, he was shot by a sniper. He was pronounced dead at 7:05 p.m.