Despite the administrative costs and inefficiencies of segregation—and facing a war on multiple fronts—the armed services did not move to integrate the hundreds of thousands of African Americans who enlisted for wartime service.

When you meet U.S. Navy Capt. Carlos Williams, director of the National Intrepid Center of Excellence at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, you’ll likely notice that he embodies the Navy’s core values of initiative, accountability, integrity and toughness.

With February designated as Black History Month, Navy Medicine and Defense Health Agency commands such as Naval Hospital Bremerton are recognizing the exceptional service and many contributions of Black military and civilian personnel.

Black History Month marks a time to celebrate the contributions of African Americans. For Naval Medical Forces Support Command, U.S. Air Force Lt. Zainob Andu, a regional logistician and assistant deputy chief of staff for logistics, is a representation of the highly professional and diverse active duty workforce.

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center hosted a Black History Month observance featuring retired U.S. Army Brig. Gen. (Dr.) Norvell “Van” Coots' presentation titled “Health Equity: African Americans and the Arts,”

Eating disorders affect people of all backgrounds, so they can often be hard to recognize. Educating yourself on the symptoms is the best way to get people the care and treatment they need. Learn more about signs, symptoms and treatment options from the @NIH: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/eating-disorders #EatingDisorderAwarenessMonth

Heads up: Smokeless tobacco, like chew and dip, cause cancer of the mouth, esophagus, and pancreas! Join thousands of others in the #GreatAmericanSpitOut and QUIT TODAY. http://health.mil/TobaccoFree

Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer in the U.S. Learn more about your risks and where to get care: health.mil/HeartHealth #HeartHealthMonth

This #NationalCaregiversDay, we recognize the selflessness and generosity shown by all caregivers — especially those in the military community. Thank you for ensuring the comfort and dignity of those who need your help. Find caregiver resources through our @WarriorCare team: http://warriorcare.dodlive.mil/Caregiver-Resources/

Toothaches are a painful, yet salient reminder to visit your dentist. Take this as your sign to call your dentist before that happens and schedule an appointment today. For more about dental care available through the MHS and @TRICARE, visit: www.health.mil/dental #NationalToothacheDay

Today is National Wear Red Day! Show your support for women’s heart disease awareness by wearing red and learning how to protest your heart health here: https://health.mil/HeartHealth #WearRed #HeartHealthMonth

Caring for service members and their families is an honor we don’t take lightly. Thank you for putting your trust in us to provide you with health care. #PatientAppreciationMonth

Did you know that more than 17 million Americans have macular degeneration? February is Age-Related Macular Degeneration Awareness Month, so ask your eye care provider how you can reduce your risk of macular degeneration and other forms of blindness.

This month, we celebrate and honor the significant accomplishments of Black Americans across the @DeptofDefense. Look back at just a few of the many trailblazers who have made great strides in medicine and contributions to @MilitaryHealth. www.health.mil/Black-History-Month

This #EatingDisorderAwarenessWeek, remember there is no need to struggle alone. The road to recovery is long and challenging, but help is available. For more about the signs of an eating disorder and how to stop unhealthy habits before they start, visit: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/eating-disorders