U.S. Self-Interest and Oil Crisis in Persian Gulf

As a 55-year-old African-American who served four years in the U.S. Navy, I find the commentary “Colorblind at the Front Lines,” by Charles E. McGee, astonishing (Platform, Aug. 14).

Where is he coming from when he asks an African-American to be colorblind.

America has never had to worry about African-Americans giving 100% effort in any war, and it doesn’t now.

I hope he is concerned enough and is doing something about the continued racism in this country.

Also, if he thinks Gen. Colin L. Powell, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has gotten where he is without the decision makers considering his color, he’s a bigger fool than Saddam Hussein.

So, don’t worry, Mr. McGee; your black brothers and sisters will follow orders as if God were the one who ordered them; and you can go back to your second-class living.

LIONEL BAIN

Santa Barbara