What is this, and do I need it?

This is a picture of a C5 trans. Can someone tell me what the black module is? I am assuming that it is a gear shift position indicator, but I haven't seen anything like this on any wiring diagrams. I know the Corvette shifter is shorter than the F-body because of the torque tube, so I was wondering if this module is normally in the console of a F-body. However, I haven't seen anyone mention the need to hook up any wires to this. So, what is this and do I need it? The trans I bought didn't have this attached.
Complete setup details:
99 5.3L engine with LS1 intake mounted backwards
98 C5 4L60E
99 truck engine wiring harness
00 truck fuse box
Thanks for the help.
Ken


