 Welcome to All Hands Update, I'm Petty Officer Ian Cotter. November is National Native American Heritage Month and this year's theme is Native Pride and Spirit, Yesterday, Today and Forever. Native Americans were first recognized for their service during the Revolutionary War, when George Washington authorized their enlistment for service in the Army, Navy and Marines. Native Americans served as code talkers during World War II and their legacy continues today with more than 12,000 sailors of Native American and Alaska Native Heritage serving in the Navy. Since 1994, ceremonies across America have honored Native Americans and Alaska Natives. Read a Sailor's Personal Story about their Native American heritage at All Hands Magazine online. To learn more about Native American service in the Navy, visit the Naval History and Heritage Command website.