(July 23, 2008)--Sixty years after President Truman desegregated the military, senior black officers are still rare, particularly in the highest ranks, The Associated Press reports.
Blacks make up about 17 percent of the total force, yet just nine percent of all officers, and higher up the in ranks, there are even fewer African-Americans.
Only one of the 38 four-star generals or admirals serving as of May was black.
One reason is career choice.
Fewer blacks are choosing combat jobs that lead to the top spots.
Another is a lack of mentors.
Retired Army Gen. Johnnie Wilson is one of only 10 African-Americans who've achieved four-star rank.
"It's hard to tell young people the sky's the limit when they look up and don't see anyone" who looks like them, he said.
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