That is my experience. As a Navy recruiter in Detroit, once I found someone who could qualify, water was a major objection to overcome.
I"n nature, most seals are black, with relatively few white ones. The Navy's SEALs have exactly the opposite problem -- they're overwhelmingly white, with hardly any blacks. So they're trying to do something about it.
It's a fundamental challenge in a democracy with an all-volunteer force: recruits may be drawn from all segments of society, but elite military units -- and none is more elite these days than the SEALs, following their dispatch of Osama bin Laden last May -- tend to draw from small pools of talent. For the SEALs, that includes athletic young men who are smart and good in the water.
For whatever reason, that has led to an overwhelmingly white SEAL force. (PHOTOS: Navy SEALs in Action)
I have also heard minorities are more drawn to the military careers that train you for jobs outside the military. So combat troops are more likely to be white. Although blackwater is a pretty high paying job for people with combat experience.
Thomas Sowell: There are no solutions, just trade-offs.
well it's not racisist but majority of blacks don't apply or want to be seals as most aren't interested in the water. Look at the Olympics,,, OK.
Worked with SEALS (many), (me) professional diver,worked under sea (offshore rigs, ship repair NAVY work) etc etc, never ever had a minority diver, or had 1 apply when we needed positions filled.
Unless the approach has changed - USN 23 years (Subs) here BTW - SEALS are chosen AFTER a s sailor is proven first - rarely are SEALS chosen at a recruiting office. Most are Petty Officers (2-4 years in a rate) BEFORE they are proven. Then it gets much more demanding.
I agree with the remarks herein addressing Blacks and water - I saw only a very few Blacks in the Submarine world - as 1-3 of thousands over two decades. No other comment - just facts and there are MANY black candidates in both the Marines and Navy. Navy does not discriminate - cut the mustard or you are OUT.
