Black Man Faced Racism, Discrimination in Military

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Marshall Edwards, a former Fort Hood staff sergeant, grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, learning about racism and discrimination as a child. However, he says he did not personally experience a lot of it until he joined the U.S. Army in 2008. Edwards faced a "barrage of racial jokes" and "constant reminders" of what people thought he should be during his military service, but credits a fair-minded platoon sergeant for helping him handle the discrimination and learn to make positive changes from within.

Why it matters

Edwards' experiences highlight the ongoing challenges that Black service members have faced in the military, where they have historically encountered racism, discrimination, and hostile environments. His story provides insight into how some have navigated these issues and worked to improve conditions for themselves and others.

The details

Edwards says he was a "screw-up" as a teenager, getting into trouble with the law and dropping out of high school before joining the Army at age 22 on his father's advice. During his first deployment to Iraq, a Samoan soldier made a racially charged comment about Edwards' ancestors "owning" him. Edwards faced a "barrage of racial jokes" and "constant reminders" of stereotypes, but credits a fair-minded platoon sergeant for encouraging him to get promoted as a way to address the discrimination.

• Edwards joined the U.S. Army in 2008.
• He made the rank of E-6 in five-and-a-half to six years.
• Edwards spent 10 years in uniform before being medically retired.

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