The American Dilemma in Uniform: Race in the Armed Forces

Abstract

The transformation of the armed forces from a segregated to an integrated institution was an impressive achievement in directed social change. Yet in the present period the relationship between white and black servicemen is characterized by polarization with attendant interracial conflict. Data are presented which show an overconcentration of blacks in the combat arms as well as substantial cross-service variation in the distribution of black personnel. At the same time, service life continues to attract and retain a greater proportion of eligible blacks than whites. The special situation of black servicemen overseas is discussed along with an appraisal of the military establishment's current efforts to cope with its racial difficulties. Finally, despite the fact that racial strife has hampered the mission effectiveness of the armed forces, it may be that the military will most likely set the pace towards the alleviation of America's perennial dilemma—race.