Blacks in the Armed Forces

The negative perception expressed in D.B. Wilkerson’s “Is This the Way Blacks Can Be All That They Can Be?” (Campus Correspondent, Opinion, Sept. 29) would sadden most Americans. Fortunately, these are false perceptions. Many white people in business, government and the military are dedicated to eliminating racial bias and unfairness in American life. Black Americans are not “disfranchised.” There is not a “white conspiracy” to reduce opportunities for black males. Many white Americans are working to assist in the education of blacks and other minorities to enable them to compete equally in the “system.”

As a result of my experience in the U.S. Air Force, I am convinced that the military is a good place to start for young people who can learn skills and discipline that are valued in the marketplace. Wilkerson’s message is biased and faulty and I am surprised that a journalism major is so ill-informed.

GEROULD A. YOUNG, Torrance