Blacks in the Armed Forces
Wilkerson is clearly mystified as to the reasons people enlist in the U.S. armed forces. Very nearly as mystified as he is in regard to what a college degree will earn him in society. College will always be an option for his former acquaintance; military service will not.
As both an Army vet (‘72-’73) and a Navy vet (‘78-’82 and ‘89-’91), and with years of civilian business experience in between, I’ve lived what Wilkerson drones on about from readings, viewings and hearsay. I was a grunt. I was a snipe squid. The military life can be a frustrating existence; you seldom get what you want nor are you often assigned to a position you’re best qualified for. That’s the way it was. That’s the way it is. The difference between being a service member in ’72 and a service member in ’91 is the emergence of recognition for the pride and professionalism displayed by the armed forces.
Wilkerson is proud to be a black man in contemporary society. His acquaintance and I are proud of what we have individually and jointly accomplished--without reference to genetic chance.
Yes, Mr. Wilkerson; caveat emptor .
CHARLES D. COUSINS, Norwalk
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
