 Shipmates, CNO Gilday here with my wife Linda. During Native American Heritage Month, we celebrate the achievements of American Indians and Alaska Natives to our Navy and to our nation. Since 1776, when General George Washington first enlisted Native Americans as part of the Continental Armed Forces, they have contributed significantly to the defense of our country. And despite hardship and discrimination over the years, Native Americans have the highest per capita rate of any population serving in our military today. There is no doubt Native Americans have a proud tradition of service and their stories represent a steadfast commitment to our core values of honor, courage, and commitment. Generations of Native Americans have left an enduring mark on the Navy, showcasing the extraordinary spirit of sailors. During the Civil War, some 20,000 Native Americans served with the Union forces both at sea and on land. And during World War I, although not eligible for the draft, 15,000 Native Americans volunteered to fight. And throughout our Navy's history, there are several examples of their remarkable service. One is Admiral Joseph Jaco Clark, who was the first Native American to graduate from the Naval Academy in 1917 and went on to command an aircraft carrier, a task force, and the United States Seventh Fleet. Another was Commander Ernest Evans, who has posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during the Battle of Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Sea. And last but certainly not least, Sandra Hines became the first Native American woman to graduate from the U.S. Naval Academy. To all of our Native American sailors, past, present, and future, thank you. We'll see you in the fleet, shipmates.