R 281758Z OCT 24 MARADMIN 517/24 MSGID/GENADMIN/CMC WASHINGTON DC MRA// SUBJ/2024 NATIONAL AMERICAN INDIAN HERITAGE MONTH// REF/A/PUBLIC LAW 99-471/30NOV1986// REF B/PUBLIC LAW 101-343/3AUG1990// REF/C/A PROCLAMATION ON NATIONAL AMERICAN INDIAN HERITAGE MONTH  2021/29OCT2021// NARR/REF A AND B ARE PUBLIC LAW ON NATIONAL AMERICAN INDIAN  HERITAGE MONTH// POC/S. C. WARNER/MAJ/CMC (MPE)/TEL: COM 703-784-2149/TEL: DSN 278/ EMAIL: [email protected]//  POC/S. R. DIXON/MAJ/CMC (MPE)/TEL: COM 703-784-6164/TEL: DSN 278/ EMAIL: [email protected]// GENTEXT/REMARKS/1.  National American Indian Heritage Month (NAIHM)  is celebrated annually in November, and its observance is rooted in  Public Laws 99-471 (1986) and 101-343 (1990).  Each year, the  President issues a Proclamation in recognition of the observance.  2.  This year’s theme, “Affirming Native Voices:  Visibility-Leadership-Service,” is a powerful reflection of the  Department of Defense (DoD) workforce culture.  The theme embodies  three fundamental principles - Visibility, Leadership, and Service - essential to the DoD observance and mission.  This alignment of  values promotes a sense of cohesion and common purpose within our  Defense community.  Visibility, Leadership, and Service are not  merely concepts but the epitome of our collective dedication to  acknowledging and valuing the diverse backgrounds and experiences  that fortify our workforce and the communities we serve.  Through  this visibility, we pay tribute to the rich history, traditions,  and contributions of all Native American people.  Leadership is a  cornerstone of our Defense community.  The theme emphasizes the  significance of Native American leaders, both past and present,  whose resilience and wisdom have paved the way for future  generations.  Their leadership serves as an inspiration for our  workforce.  Service lies at the core of our mission.  The numerous  Native Americans who have served and continue to serve in our  military demonstrate a deep commitment to duty and country.  Their  service is a powerful reminder of the selfless sacrifices made for  the greater good.  Additional information on NAIHM is located at  https:(slash)(slash)www.defenseculture.mil/special-observances/.  3.  As a Service, we are deeply committed to embracing the talents,  strengths, skills, and perspectives of every Marine.  Talent  Management 2030 states, “The Marine Corps draws its collective  strength and identity from all Marines, so it is critical that we  prioritize policies that maximize the individual strengths of every  Marine regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, creed, or  any other marker.”  Our talent management system is a testament to  this commitment, supporting the imperative to maximize warfighting  effectiveness, prioritizing diversity of thought, fostering  inclusivity, and implementing policies that ensure equity across  the force.   4.  The Marine Corps is committed to living the values we defend,  treating everyone equally and with dignity and respect.  During  this observance month, commanders are encouraged to recognize and  celebrate the invaluable service and selfless contributions of  Native Americans – military, veterans, and civilians - to our  country and Corps.  Commanders are encouraged to conduct programs  and promote participation in observance events within their  commands and local communities. 5.  Release authorized by Brigadier General David R. Everly,  Director, Manpower Plans and Policy Division, Manpower and Reserve  Affairs.//