Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class Bryan R. Graves, son of Lori J. Graves of Allenhurst and Terrence R. Graves of Lakewood, Wash., and fellow sailors and Marines aboard the amphibious transport dock USS New Orleans marked Black History Month with a celebration hosted by the ship’s diversity committee.
Today, more than 123, 000 active-duty, reserve and civilian members of the Navy identify themselves as African-American.
New Orleans and embarked Marines assigned to the 11th Marine MEU are deployed as part of the Makin Island Amphibious Ready Group, supporting maritime security operations and theater security efforts in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of responsibility.
Graves, a 2006 graduate of Yelm High School, joined the Navy in August 2006.

Hunter graduates from basic training
Army Pvt. Andrew Hunter has graduated from basic infantry training at Fort Benning in Columbus.
Hunter earned distinction as an honor graduate.
The private is a 2006 graduate of Bradwell Institute and is the son of Andrew Hunter of Hinesville.

Perez graduates from basic training
Air Force Airman Andres A. Perez recently graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, Texas.
Perez is the son of Ellanora and Luis Perez of Hinesville.
The airman is a 2011 graduate of Liberty County High School.