 Shipmates, C&O Guilday here with Mick Pondsmith aboard the guided missile cruiser USS Gettysburg, a storied warship and enduring symbol of the decisive battle that turned the tide of the Civil War, a battle for the soul of America, a battle that ultimately forged a stronger nation. And we're here today to celebrate Black History Month and to recognize the many achievements of sailors past and present for their service. We stand on the shoulders of giants. We must never forget their dedication and service. Leaders like the Golden Thirteen, who were the first Black Naval officers commissioned in February 1944, and Cook Third Class Dory Miller, who demonstrated relentless courage during the attack on Pearl Harbor. And Mass Sheet boats and mate Carl Brashere, the first Black Navy diver, Jesse L. Brown, the first Black American aviator, and first Black American killed in the Korean War, and the first Black woman four-star Admiral Michelle Howard. During Black History Month, take the time to learn about the many incredible leaders and trailblazers who helped get us to where we are now. Leaders like Admiral Cecil Haney, Vice Admiral Mel Williams, Rare Admiral Annie Andrews, Fleet Master Chief April Beldo, and Command Master Chief Dee Allen, the floorback woman currently serving as commanding officers of U.S. Navy warships, to now Second Lieutenant Sydney Barber, the first Black woman to serve as our Naval Academy's brigade commander. Leadership doesn't just exist in the history books. I am continually inspired by those who serve today. We must continue to learn from the example of those pioneering leaders, as well as our shipmates in the fleet today. And as we do this, we must remember that as we find ourselves in the breach of strategic competition, America needs a flexible forward-deployed engage fleet that keeps the seas open and free, generates credible deterrents at sea, and provides quick response options for U.S. leadership. Make no mistake, people are our asymmetric advantage in this competition. Diversity and inclusion are some of our Navy's greatest strengths. It's about talent, teamwork, and a wider range of perspectives that pushes us forward to go from good to great, and to be able to fight and win. Our Navy prides itself with developing leaders who in many cases, and despite overwhelming odds, challenges, and biases, serve with honor and distinction. Every month, not just February, is an opportunity for us to celebrate and renew our shared commitment to the guarantee of equity for all. Thank you for your commitment to our national security. We're surely proud of all that you do.