The choir is excited about reaching out to the Brigade of Midshipmen, the Naval Academy's extended family, and to the Annapolis community, said Midn. 1/C Kerrissa Torres, a choir member.

For 15 years, the Naval Academy Gospel Choir has performed a concert in conjunction with other events at the academy to commemorate Black History Month.

"Encouraging growth and continued success of the Gospel Choir's mission is the Naval Academy's way of acknowledging the rich culture of the African-American heritage," says Joyce Garrett, the Gospel Choir's director.

"Embracing this heritage is important to midshipmen and gives them a vehicle to educate others in the brigade," agrees Midn. 1/C Gerald Triplett, former Gospel Choir president. "This educational process extends past the gates of the Naval Academy to reach communities, towns, schools and people who may have difficulty connecting their heritage to the personal sacrifice required of naval service."

Midn. 2/C Cassie Soto is proud to be a part of what she considers to be one of the most diverse organizations at the Naval Academy. "The Gospel Choir is made up of people with different races and backgrounds, people from all throughout the nation to sing from their hearts and souls," she says. "I am so glad to be a part of an organization that allows us to express ourselves in such a way."

Choir members believe this diversity is a cornerstone of the Gospel Choir's mission and enhances the Naval Academy, as well as the Navy at large.

Midn. 2/C Desiree Timmons likes the Gospel Choir's commitment to spreading the word of God and presenting the naval uniform with pride. She believes this year's concert theme, "He's a Mighty God," represents the choir particularly well.

"God has brought us all together, from all walks of life," she says.

Last year the Gospel Choir celebrated its 20th anniversary. During that time, many members have considered the Gospel Choir to be an essential part of their professional and moral development.

Under the direction of Garrett, the Gospel Choir has developed into an upbeat and inspirational musical ensemble with a diverse repertoire of music ranging from traditional hymns and Negro spirituals to contemporary gospel rhythms.

Since Garrett became the choir director in 1990, it has received recognition throughout the country for its excellence in singing.

The concert is open to the public. Admission is $10 for the general public, $5 for midshipmen and children under age 12. Children under 3 get in free.

For information concerning the choir, contact Stephanie Woodall, the Music Department coordinator, by e-mailing woodall@usna.edu or calling 410-293-2439.

Information can also be obtained by going to the choir's Web site at www.usna.edu/GospelChoir/

The Gospel Choir's 2002 compact disc, "Glory and Honor," will be available at the concert. It is also available in the Midshipmen Store and at the Armel-Leftwich Visitor Center.