 Shipmates, C&O Gilday here at the United States Naval Academy with midshipman first-class Sydney Barber and other senior brigade leadership to celebrate Black History Month. Thank you, C&O. This month we recognize and pay tribute to Black Americans who have worn the cloth of our nation and our Navy. We celebrate their service, their achievements, and their countless contributions to our force. Throughout our 245-year history, generations of Black Americans have served our Navy honorably, often without the recognition they so deserved. Many others have given their lives for this nation in peace and in war, and several of their names are enshrined on these walls behind us here in Memorial Hall. Today there are more than 67,000 Black sailors, approximately 17% of the Navy, who serve on active duty and in the reserves in nearly every job. And we serve proudly today knowing several amazing trailblazers have paid the way for us to do so. That's right, Sydney. Sailors like Admiral Cecil Haney and Admiral Michelle Howard, Fleet Master Chief April Beldo and Command Master Chief Dee Allen smash through barriers, proving anything is possible. Others like Dory Miller, Cal Brashere, and the Golden Thirteen exemplified tremendous courage, leaving an indelible mark on our Navy and our nation. To those who have gone before us, thank you. And to those serving today, remember that it's our stories and our choices and our careers that will inspire the next generation of Black Americans to serve. As we continue to celebrate the accomplishment of Black Americans throughout the month of February, I urge you to take time to reflect, reflect on our past, and reflect on what we want the future to be. Dr. Martin Luther King said that time is always right to do what is right. That right time is right now. Respect each other and honor our shared history. We'll see you in the Fleet, shipmates.