Huge loss for the Air Force. I guess we're going to claim he's a DEI project as well right? Can't have a black man that's actually better than most pilots and earned the right to fly the F22 fighters.
@@buddydc3829idk why our ppl wanna be together with others that historically hatred us for hundreds of years. But we will forever hold this false hope.
I did 5 years in the NAVY as a SEABEE. It was 5 years of hell. I couldn't believe how racist the U.S.MILITARY was. It was a shame because i had aspirations. But i will never allow aspirations to override my dignity and integrity as a man. I am a man first and always.
This is the same in corporate America. I'm 6'2, chocolate and i have a deep voice. When I walk in meetings and I'm the only Black man, I know they are intimidated. It's not a good thing, especially in negotiations. You get ganged up on. People sometimes disagree just to try a take the power they think i have away. I have to maintain the adjustment all of the time.
He does intimidate them. Not because he’s physically intimidating because he’s black and just as qualified or more qualified than them. That intimidates them.
This is a form of envy but I am surprised that America regards to it as a form of intimidation. This officer seems brilliant and capable of succeeding even in his new career just as he did while in the airforce. His openess about his experience is a good revelation for if such conversations will be heard time and again, it might change the narrative to help advocate the welfare of a black man and woman in the airforce. All the best to him.
@@selsahmwishen2981 when you have done wrong and you understand that wrong, you become aware of the perceived comeback from those youve wronged. You begin to look at your own shadow waiting for that moment of retribution. Thats why theyre so easily triggered by CRT or even teaching of American history centered around Black people, because it has evidence of all the wrongs theyve committed, we have the privilege of them documenting it for all of us. But, hes a fighter, as a fighter pilot and now as a future attorney. Wouldnt be surprised to see him become president. So, I thank all those caucasoids for awakening a beast, a threat, in the best possible way.
🤣🤣 American blacks .. you do not realise how much self loathing and projection you reveal in your ignorant comments. You all sound like BLM talking points. You yourself cannot say others are intimidated by you.. thats up to OTHERS TO STATE .. saying yourself is intimidating is just narcissism. Black Americans love to say how racist their country is, yet have NEVER TRAVELLED to China, Jordan, Qatar, UKRAINE, Saudi Arabia 🤣🤣 if i could pick 1 of you and pay your trip i would to any of those countries. Very quickly you would be begging to go back to America. FACT their are 1.7 MILLION BLACK MILLIONAIRES IN AMERICA The country with the MOST BLACK MILLIONAIRES IS THE USA As a non American i see most black Americans MAKE EXCUSES & PRESUMPTIONS of racism holding them down. If America was TRULY RACIST THEIR WOULD BE NO OR ONLY A FEW RICH BLACKS in America. Face it you are in a 72% WHITE COUNTRY. If you go to Nigeria SURPRISE SURPRISE ITS 98% BLACK but you wont see the whites that live their bitching and complaining. Black Americans love to play victim, make excuses and put in minimum effort and instead of SAVING YOUR MONEY, EVEN IF ITS ONLY A FEW DOLLARS HERE & THEIR you would be bettef off.. but no the second you get money in your hands you blow it on dumb things instead of saving. JUST LIKE WHITE TRAILER TRASH WITH THEIR WELFARE CHEQUES.. Get out of your PITY PARTY, STOP BLAMING OTHERS FOR YOUR LIFE CHOICES, CUT OFF YOUR LOSER FRIENDS HOLDING YOU DOWN and make something out of yourself.
You must have watched that corny movie. Tuskegee airman is a stretch. They lost aircraft in their charge and they were in a back area action in Italy. They didn’t get near the real heavy combat. Fact . I studied ww2 history my whole life. Tuskegee pilots have a lot to be proud of for sure but that movie was not that accurate and most of the movies about ww2 involve a lot of made up stories. They definitely were very good pilots,
Told by who? If you were told that by someone in authority, you could and should have filed an EO complaint. There may still be something that can be done.
The hate is real ... I retired from the USAF and worked in the office that was responsible for addressing these concerns and let me tell you ... it's bad .. the standards aren't even close and it's especially worst in the pilot community
I can wholeheartedly attest to this as well. I retired after 30 yrs and worked at THE office responsible for increasing DEI. They paid a well known research group thousands of $$ to look into how unjust african American males are being disproportionately punished compared to their white male counterparts of a similar crime and the results were not surprising. Where are those results now? Buried or burned somewhere. One only needs to look at how many men of color (and no woman) has been in charge in the 40 plus years of the AF to know that racism and bias still exists. Its not blatant, but believe me, it's there
@@contactpq I can only imagine the complaints you received. I just retired as a MSgt on 1 Aug 24 after 23 years of being a cop. I couldn’t take it anymore the treatment I experienced and saw. Nothing has changed and it’s only getting worse unfortunately.
I'm black, a veteran of the Vietnam war that followed five older brothers to serve in the army. After four years, I requested a discharge because of racism. We have tried to be part of America by helping to build this divided nation and even after giving lives to do so, we are still oppressed.
D. Wright the problem is your getting mad at the average joe for systematic racism. What you fail to realize is it’s not the average joe it’s the higher ups in corporation military or not
@@snipinmonsta A. Who’s mad? B. Failure? C. Aren’t the “higher ups” you make reference to part of a collective society? I don’t understand your point as a “keen” observation? In fact, it feels more like blame shifting instead of truly understanding the underlying problem. Correct me if I am wrong but there were plenty of average joes involved in the 1/6 insurgency.
I’m be been told this same thing... I was told that I had to smile more to make people feel comfortable. Yup. I’m tired of padding other people’s insecurities.
What is MOST intriguing to me is that people will fight to the death disputing this! My father and myself are former AF officers and listen when I say! There is BLATANTLY BIGOTRY in the service! All branches I might add. My father went to the academy and he experienced it there too. It takes very strong men to get through these experiences. It’s nothing new it’s likely not to change
It’s everywhere. Once you accept that it exists and isn’t going away you learn to navigate it. One thing that can’t be taken away is knowledge, this bothers them to no end. You take that and start your own business. It’s why I got out of the AF in ‘92 and never looked back. Met some great people who I’m still in touch with today but that’s about it
Black people are amazing despite insurmountable odds we're capable of great accomplishments. So proud of this young man and the others. They're all examples of true grit heart and soul. Blessings to you all. 🙏 ❤
Can you imagine how great so many of us could be if we just didn't have to nurse other people's insecurities and fear under the title of racism. All designed to keep us chasing our own tails. Always being told what we have to pretend with true blue racist fearful cowards to achieve or progress. Don't make them feel bad, right. Because we don't have "feelings".
I was going to say. He looks and acts like a very nice person. His voice isn’t “very deep.” Too many white people don’t grow up around any black people and thus don’t realize that there isn’t much difference. The vast majority of the white men in the military are larger and more tough than this man. What a joke.
Unfortunately, these battles ought not exist but we are in the real USA where race, especially our race in the military is a battle we need to win. We only want to be seen and treated as non people of color. I know I am a navy veteran.
One of France greatest soldier is a black American by Name Eugene Bullard. He ran from jim crow at 11 yrs old and travel to France at 14 years old, became French most decorated soldier. French president came to America after WW2 and met with him, American Roosevelt said to him France owe you gratitude but America only recognized him 35 years after he dead. African American were some of the best fighters in WW2.
Man, you know his resumé has to be amazing when there are no racist TH-cam comments about him being a crybaby or “playing the race card,” “Go back to Africa.” He’s so good he’s got the racists speechless.
You are actually on to something when you say Go back to Africa. Here you will be treated with dignity and respect and you can actually control the means of production. In the USA they just don't know what to do with you after they "invited you over". Start by visiting an African country as a tourist, get to learn the culture and build from there.....
That's beyond excellence! Can't imagine the grit and drive that took him to achieve it and I've been black in high pressure situations like that myself. He's better than most of us out here, all colors considered.
Racism has nothing to do with a person's skin pigmentation. Racism comes from the wicked human heart. Hell is littered black racists, white racists, hispanic racists and Asian racists. Matthew 25:41, Revelation 20:11-15 It is a good thing for all of us to examine our own hearts when looking at other people.
@@BasedU.S.parriot1776 *When you're such a COWARD that you have to comment from a TROLL account.* Show *your* face, COWARD. Are you one of those TRUMPAZEES wanted by the FBI? I want some of that reward money. Betcha won't show *your* face, COWARD. 🥶🥶🥶🥶🥶🥶 P.S. Get some education and learn the difference between *YOUR and YOU'RE,* idiot.
I mean let’s be honest he was flying an f22. Maybe he didn’t feel like he fit the culture but so what. Should the whole squadron change or should he. This is coming from me a black man and it’s an honest question.
@@kills456 I have worked with high performers who are high on life. They're generally misunderstood and misunderstand themselves. Tricky situation, people from different cultures coming together with different ways of doing things, bound to me fireworks. Same happens with medical students who come together.
@SuperDave Miorgan ~ The audacity of white privilege. Many cultures built America. Through wisdom, most will live a comfortable lie instead of being stripped in truth. The count up is real, so is our last breath .
He will not succeed in law school either,I knew a lot of black lawyers that's quite,US state sponsored of racism should stop the world had move on but US till left behind.
@@laserhobbyist9751 none of you cannot relate and honestly I dont expect you to understand as you are part of the problem. I'm absolutely sure what race you are that's for damn sure
@@49ersfoldem I'm sorry but even the strongest man cry I know but it's not because I have white privilege it's because I see what's going on around me and it is ridiculous everybody has a hard time no matter the color of your skin except unless you're white these days or a straight white guy people need to get a grip on themselves and quit using race as a problem that is what is ununiting humanity God bless all those who are truly blind and cannot see the truth and bless all of us that know and understand what it is like to be discriminated against and it's every single one of us every day be praying for everybody that thinks they're the only ones we all go through it I've been arrested in handcuffed and everything at a young age and threw around like a a full grown man and nobody cried because I was white I guess it's a shame that people are still pulling the color of the skin cards it's right out sickening of all races were slaves at one time or another people's forgot their history and don't realize the freedoms they have because of strong military heroes true Patriots don't forget where you come from and don't forget what your ancestors have given you God bless and keep good knowledge amen and praise God hallelujah and Jesus name I have prayed Amen... 💯♥️✝️🙏🇺🇸⚖️🌎✌️👌❤️🤍💙🙌
@@randytrivitt6539 so you dont believe that racial discrimination still exist?! Do you believe a black man with dreads is going to get that executive office position for example
I’m Mexican and deal with this everywhere I go not just at jobs or school, but restaurants, stores, everywhere even just walking minding my own business
Intimidating?? He’s a US solider around other US soldiers how can you be intimidated by him? I’ll say it for him sounds like an excuse to cover your racism.
he’s not a soldier, he’s an airmen and it’s not usual for black people to be pilots in the air forces which causes chemistry racism when you start working with white airmen. please sit down, this is a situation
This comment must not understanding the history of becoming a pilot when pilots began , first and foremost you had to be within a family of wealthy backgrounds before even considered . Secondly when they come to find out that all they had was privilege pilots that was within pilot seats and no brains really to further the skills and rhythm to the power that surrounded them , MEANING people of color is and always have been hard at getting deep down and dirty into understanding what makes things work and after they find out other parts of there brain clicks in to understand the needs to apply the skills . The only thing is people of color Don't discriminate who the teach and allow to be apart of . This isn't about color , this topic is about "THE GREED OF POWER" that people in power is stuck still looking dumb on as the country moves on . How about that ??? Lol I noticed people hold fast for someone like me to pop in on some of the dumbest comments people make as if ignorance is dam normal . Ignorance is the brain of the privileged pilots . This is why they needed brains other than the average privileged pilots being pushed favorably with wealth throughout pilot schools .
@Zakaria Ali The "ellites" are far more racial diverse than you think (in the UK anyway) Just look at the tory cabinet or the percentage of non White's at Eton.
@Austin Bennett Exactly!!!! I'm a black male who served. People who I served with were super nice and respectful. Some of the examples the media look for are products of the hiper sensitive, media propped-up, insane world we live in, were people see evil in everything, and no assumptions of good intentions are ever bestowed. The press loves this kind of nonsense. I knew they write a story about it. Not even our sacred military will be spared their grievance-peddling train --- Leave the military and the wonderful people serving in it alone. Go find other serious stories to cover.
IM A 61 YEAR OLD WHITE MAN AND ARMY VETERAN. I WANT TO SAY THAT I AM VERY PROUD OF THIS YOUNG MAN AND HIS ACOMPLISHMENTS GRADUATING FROM THE AIR FORCE ACADEMY AND HIS STRONG DETERMINATION TO SEE HIS TRAINING PAY OFF ALL THE WAY TO THE END. HE NEVER GAVE UP! I ADMIRE AND RESPECT HIM FOR THAT !! I GREW UP AN AIR FORCE BRAT AND WAS ALWAYS ATTENDING SCHOOLS THAT WERE DEVERSIFIED. I THEN AS I DO NOW, APPRECIATE THAT FACT. I WANT TO SAY TO MAJOR DANIEL WALKER, HOLD YOUR HEAD UP HIGH, AND BE PROUD OF YOURSELF. CARY ON YOUR LEGACY FOR YOUR SONS AND OR DAUGHTERS. I AM PROUD OF YOU, AND AMERICA IS PROUD OF YOU ! ......................AIRBORNE !!!
People don’t need the media to help create a narrative of what they experience in every day life. These experiences shared like this pilot are real to him regardless of media coverage.
I can definitely identify with this. While in USAF, at a muscular 6’5, 220lbs I was often told to not speak with so much bass in my voice so i don’t intimidate my superiors.
What a bunch of Pu$$ies. How can they be your "Superiors" if they are intimidated. Them telling you that is like telling a Lion to put his tail between his legs when passing a bunch of Hyenas. 😅
Plainly, it is good for most (if not all) of us to have dudes like you on our side. And, if by chance, you happen to also know how to sing, all the better😁. You could have been one of their unforgettable best buds. You've actually shared very little about them, but that little fills in so much. It's 👍to be you.
Generally speaking we're a dumb species. Hundreds of years have passed and we still have insecure & superficial prejudices against fellow humans. No wonder aliens haven't bothered spending time on this planet or made themselves overly known to us.
I would have enjoyed running into you in Cambridge. I would have loved to shake your hand. I used to tell my nephew " there's nothing scarier to a racist is a intelligent black man with a college degree." Thank you for your service and congratulations on acceptance to Harvard Law School. Your uncle is proudly watching you from above. God bless.
That’s the issue, Russ-I need you to see that I am BOTH black and a well-trained person who served. This way when someone is mistreating me, he or anyone else based on color/race/etc that you CAN see it and maybe be an ally. This colorblind doesn’t work.
I served in an MP Battalion in Germany with a black officer. This officer came to the Army because of the chances to be treated properly. We had some pretty frank conversations about race. The officer said the Army was not perfect, but was far ahead of the civilian world when it came to equal opportunity.
@@Darknamja That is true, but those rules are written under the umbrella of mission readiness. Good leaders are color blind because they want the best people so as to be successful. Don’t get me wrong, bigotry exists, but not like the civilian world.
Even as a enlisted man, I was faced with the same comments/feedback. If you excel your told to tone it down, but if you are perceived as lacking you are railed/weeded out systematically. The old saying of "know your place".
@@hubertpounall1323 I was in the Army and my experience was with a combat unit. When bullets are flying everyone quickly figures out, who the real men are, and the racial bs goes out the window. The problem for me was when we returned home. Over there I wasn’t afraid or concerned about rank or politics. It was all about survival for myself and my guys. Being back in states the end for me.
Retired US ARMY Apache pilot here - it’s crazy how WE all have the same experience regardless of the branch of service. The LTG political correct response at the end sounds too familiar..not calling it out because he is part of the problem - white solidarity ✌🏾
Any minority in the military will face some type of discrimination in their military career. I myself as an Asian -American combat veteran faced a lot of discrimination. Typical statement I always hear “Open your eyes when you shoot.” My blood boils inside, but I kept my cool and just push forward. I never regret joining the Army, best decision of my life & loved serving.
Sorry man, there's no excuse. I like to think I wasn't a part of the "isms" in the military, but I know I laughed and commented when I shouldn't have. I wish we'd all just see the uniforms and thre brilliance or stupidity only from the individual wearing the uniform.
This guy had the final laugh, not only did he have an amazing accomplishment of becoming an F22 pilot( I mean just grasp that, dude is flying an air-superiority stealth fighter) kudos to him, but then he goes an gets accepted in Law School at Harvard, props to you man, big respect!!💪💪God bless you.
@@dubb9020 It seems that your mind is in wrong location,where the sun doesn't shine .The F22 is the top Air Force fighter,To become an F22 pilot ,you must be very smart and skilled.
@@dubb9020 Affirmative action was giving millions of acres of Native American land to white Anglo European settlers. Affirmative action was giving only white WW2 vets the GI bill and housing act. Affirmative action was always racist.
@Amend the Constitution to Remove Pathological Liars If you don't love Ted Cruz then you ain't a constitutionalist. If you don't love Ted Cruz then you ain't a Republican. If you don't love Joe Biden, you ain't black.
I spent 30 years in the Air Force and 100% I was discriminated against to the point it affected my career and constantly dealt with the "you're intimidating" nonsense.
This exemplifies the true black males, that most commonly "intentionally" goes unrecognized! I'm so proud of him and I pray that the young black males (that I try to educate and try to turn into young black educated "adult" males), can recognize his achievements and be convinced to follow their own dreams, so as to not live their present nightmares! In my mind; this man will always be top brace in all of his endeavors! "Yoshuah" blessing for life young man....
This interview with an F-22 Pilot is very truthful. I myself was in the military in the mid 70's - 1975 -1981. Learned how to fly while in the Army and can say all those years ago I faced the same racist comments that this F-22 Fighter pilot faced. Things have not really changed in the military. Only the perception that things are better. But success is the best antidote for what he experienced. I myself went on the fly and had a successful Engineering career and retired. Kudos to this brother for speaking up and speaking out.
Thank you, sir , for your service to our country and our community. we need more of you as a mirror for our youth, so that we can keep replicating and multiplying. Theres a whole lot of work to be done. rooting for him as he goes into a different arena, to become a different kind of fighter.
Coming from Africa back to United States. I never understood racism until we moved back to the United States from Africa. It's a damn shame on what my African American brothers are going thru in the United States. It seems the system is set in the way to keep people of color in a trap. You have to be really exceptional to excel with the barriers set everywhere for people of color to fail. America isn't an equal partner for all races.
I can relate to that young brother. I was a black Air Traffic Controller in the Air Force. I was tall and had that deep voice, and yes I heard some of the same things! The rumor was I wasn’t going to make it through Air Traffic Control school, I was going to washout. But, I ended up graduating number 2 in my class, missing number 1 by 2 points. I went on to be featured in the Air Force Airmen’s magazine. I must admit, I really had a good time during my stay in the force, but as he felt the need to leave, I did too.
The majority of people leave the service before 20 years regardless of race, sex or religion. I was enlisted in the USAF for 10 years. I prefer the military structure over civilian life but as an enlisted person the money will never be equal. I took my military skills to the corporate world. Is the corporate world more racist that the military? I would say so. So now what? Either start your own company or figure it out.
@@kevinx9225 You are right, I started my own company! This wasn’t about race, but like I said and I’ll say it again, I can relate to his story because the same thing happened to me!
As long as it's all fun and games with no real work involved it's all good. When you have to actually work, that's what makes a lot of people leave the service. 🪖🧈💩
That's the thing.. We've been taught for far too long that we are different races.. We aren't.. We're just different skin tones. That's what is different.. Saying we are all different races is what these crazies get in their heads that we are less than.. Human beings is what you are, I am, this man is, and everyone else.. I thank you so very very much for being on the side of those of us that are seen as less than.. That means so much and again, I thank you! 🤭🤗🤗
A GREAT dude... who bombs poor dirt farmers, (who fight back with WW2 tech)so that the poppy and minerals can flow and the war machine contracts and the stonks... Oh the GLORIOUS stonks... can go up and up and UP! Tuskegee airmen he is NOT! Take it with a grain of salt (from a former USAFA cadet no less)... This guy will surely run for office, after he does a 2-5 year stint working in a top tier law firm where his firm's and his former law school's network will plug him right into high political office. Just think, identity politics cripples just about every single populist movement (on the right or left) from affecting ANY meaningful change to the political system of the United States. Wouldn't it be just so incredibly, deliciously, "convenient" if the slightest resistance to war or any act of political aggression, economic, military, or whatever... could be written off as RACIST?
I’m a retired AF officer, experienced the same thing, and found the private sector worse. I had one small company president I was interviewing with tell me that some of his employees are racist but I’d have to navigate that alone and work through the issues.
@@perpetualretrograde9764 specifically the man above mentioned a supervisor who tolerated racism and left an employee to just figure it out. I've been at commands where opportunities were provided for caucasian officers that would make them more competitive and minorities were passed by or if you questioned the trend then you're a troublemaker or given a song and dance with ludicrous reasons why they made the decision to marginalize you. Then when all is said and done they explain their BS with statements like ducks vote for ducks. If you're blowing past this it's either you purposefully ignore this or you're part of the problem and don't think we deserve an equal opportunity. We only ask for the equal opportunity not equal outcomes.
@@josephjones6870 you know what I saw in the ranks? Everyone was treated as 2nd fiddle to the mission. Which is how it should be. There were sensitive guys that whined and complained. Those were the ones that ran the commo lines and did KP. Then they say it’s racism. Let’s not talk about who got in the most trouble off duty.... that is a whole other conversation. What I have seen through my life is people are treated by way of how THEY act. Now in private sector.. the people that run to HR over their feel feels getting hurt are avoided when all it usually is is a case of dishing it out but couldn’t take it. I have never been part of the “problem”. Maybe my whole life I have been too far down on the food chain to be able to see racism.
Boy do they have a method of breaking us down. Very similar experience in business. Took walk around trying to adjust who you are to make someone else feel comfortable is exhausting and leads to much distress.
Men from the past sure were tougher and they went through worst things than people now. Too much victim mentality. I did 13 years in the US Air Force as a Latino, and no even once I felt or noticed racial discrimination against me.
@@codycrespin6021 would like to see someone talk like that on a job interview with top heads of a company or anyone in general. On god, on me, on my momma... the list goes on my friend lol. That just shows the IQ level on someone. You think I care about likes buddy?? I dont need likes to make me feel better or to boost my ego so get my frank out your mouth thank you brother. "Cody" let me guess you a wannabe "hood" type of person. Yall got some growing up to do...
White privilege expect black people to act like grateful puppies towards them. When that doesn't happen, they will work against you. All about power on their behalf!!!
Accepted at Harvard Law School. This guy has the final laugh because that's a big accomplishment and will likely do more in life compared to the others there.
Proud of this young Brother. My father’s first cousin was a Tuskegee Airman. He was a P-51 Mustang pilot during WWII. This Brother has done pretty well for himself, and think he knows it as well as his peers and superiors. Eleven years in the US Air Force to achieve the rank of major, he was on the fast track or as we say in the Army, he was fast tracking to be a General Officer(G.O). He reminds me of General Vincent Brooks, a West Pointer and an exceptional officer. The Major can always join the guard, fly, while attending Harvard Law. He is exceptional!
Puked my way out of N.A.S. Pensacola...did not get my Wings of Gold. You should have stayed and gotten Stars. Then, you can change the System and Culture. Semper Fi.....Steve the Marine
4:53 This is the same in the fire service throughout this country....if you're a black fire officer....if you're not and too out spoken and don't rock the boat of the "good old boy network" you'll be rewarded.
I see a great representative of the US Air Force. Seems like intimidating is just another word for "too black" to be with the fly boys. How accomplished and educated do we have to be?? Perhaps we'll never understand.
I was denied 6 promotions in the Navy because as I was told "You have too much confidence in yourself and your fellow sailors were intimidated" ❗❓❗ It took almost 3yrs to finally get promoted, but even then there was pushback from other officers in my unit. I'd make them look bad by completing projects assigned to our unit ahead of schedule within weeks instead of months. Frickin crazy ❗❗❗
You think that's crazy brother.... I had a gun pulled on me by a white police officer while in uniform while he knew I didn't have a weapon and wasn't a threat.
I was white, also in the Navy, and had the same experience. I'm as insecure as they come, yet somehow I come off as overbearing and intimidating. I've been told the same thing in civilian life.
Resume: f 22 pilot so you can fly an aircraft that is discontinued and only available in the USA yeah I don’t think his resume is going to help him that much when he leaves the USAF
@@getstuffed2391 Actually, these guys are in very high demand and easily write their career from the time they solo in that jet. I know several Air Force aviators and they are all doing extremely well post Air Force. It's the reason that the military has such a significant pilot shortage. Wht are we having these problems in 2021.
I'm a black man, and I served in the A.F. I've never experienced racism, and ive served with all races, and all walks of life. with that said, I was enlisted. Its a totally different experience than OFC
Black AF retired here. Definitely saw it sadly...Fast Burned to E7 and experienced unease with me firsthand, namely because I just didn't fit the typical mold but led my Airmen the right way not necessarily the political way. Also, had black troops who were automatically not given a 2nd chance on things very fixable...Is what it is.
My Brother was a Pilot in the Navy...he dropped out after 4 years of flying. He said they treated him like crap b/c he was Black and a damn good Pilot like our Father and he couldn't move up in ranks. All the things this Pilot is saying is true. My Brother is now Captain fly for a Private Company between Europe and America.... he told his Son who want to be a military Pilot to not do it b/c of the stress levels of racism. Just sad.
Well spoken and shared story, unfortunately from my AF experience you don't have to be a glorified pilot to experience this level of racism. I worked in the Civil Energizing squadron and worked along side of civil service federal employees as well as the hierarchal military uniformed chain of command. Many airmen would aspire to work in the more lucrative private sector after their military careers were finished. As an AF commercial refrigeration and AC specialist I routinely saw the unwillingness of our civil service workforce, many who were Vietnam War veterans themselves, to train the black airmen in a competent manner. Routinely many higher level critical jobs were given to the white airmen to gain critical working knowledge and experience, while regulating menial jobs to the black airmen - essentially a measure instituted to dumb down our level of competence both in the AF that affected skill level promotions and rank upgrades. Periodically contractors from the private sector were upgrading or installing new commercial grade cooler and chiller systems. The high level GS foreman, would work with the NCOIC in handpicking white airmen to work alongside of those contractors gaining both critical working knowledge and post-service job seekers contacts for when their AF Careers were over. We black service members were intentionally stunted in both our AF Careers, and future private sector job opportunities by this strategic fashion of discrimination/racism jointly conducted by the GS civil service proponent and military rank and file, a lose/lose situation if you were a black service member in the USAF. This was in the 80s and 90s. I seriously doubt anything has changed for the better.
I was a Marine Corps bandsman. being one of the few African Americans in the field, I felt that I had to set an example. After basic training, I attended the Armed forces School of Music. that's when I felt the pressures of being black in the military. Not wanting to make waves, I put up with the racism from quite a few of my fellow students and some of my Seniors. I was no exceptional student and the remarks and treatment weighed on me as I struggled through and passed the course. when I got to my first duty station, I felt welcomed there until I met the band officer who was on his way to a new duty assignment. At his farewell party, he spoke to me for the first time. Our new band officer, the second black band officer in the history of the Corps was present also. He told me to "come on in and have a seat next to my bother." That pretty much set the tone for the rest of my time in the service. I wanted to make a career out of the service, but I couldn't tell the difference between the wisecrackers and the bigots after a while. It affected me deeper than I had realized. I can relate heavily to this young officer's feelings.
I love the Air Force-it shaped my life and paid for all my education, leading up to my master's degree in computer science. But as a driven Black young man, I was told my ambition could put a target on my back. I used to lie about taking classes to avoid shade from senior management. In the Air Force, they’ll clip a Black man’s wings if you try to fly higher than their expectations. Despite that I love the Air Force and I appreciate everything -I’m just sharing my story.
The saddest truth is the best and most talented people for the job always walk way because they are unrecognized by their employers. And the worst end up getting the job and they are not eve qualified for the position in anyway.
Why is that? I heard a good comment from a radio commentator who made me realize that. He said ever notice the horrid dictators of countries stay in power?
This has been the story of most educated black Americans in the military and also corporate America. They are intimidated by our intelligence. They think all black Americans are like the characters they see on television from those reality shows. Unfortunately it’s an uphill battle because they are still in the majority of everything.
@@anderstopansson someone being able to thrive inspite of systemic racism doesn't disapprove its existence. The treatment he and others before him received shows there's an real bias here, designed to keep more people like him out.
The whole point is that there are extremely talented black men and women who lose opportunity in the military due to racial bias or minor discrimination. When we already have a recruitment shortage in the military.
You have to have thick skin in the military. Regardless of your race. And the fact that he achieved his goal as an elite fighter pilot shows you that he was treated fairly. This story doesn’t seem 100% genuine.
I'm a Navy Vet. My dad Viet Nam, Uncles, Nam as well. Gramps, WWII. ALL OF US experienced plenty of racism when we served. My family actually tried to talk me OUT of serving, we left off on bad terms when I enlisted anyway. If you bring up that racism to your superiors, you get batted down. They cover for themselves. I'm glad I went and did what I did, but I only served one enlistment because of that racism.
@@maryrodger5130 Exactly. When I first arrived on board the Nimitz, one of the very first things I was told about repair division was that there was a lot of racism. That came from 3 black Petty Officers who were nearing the end of their enlistments. They also made it very clear to me that if I ever spoke up about it, things wouldn't go well for me. I had to just endure it, in silence.
@@bradcolby1 I would suggest Marine Corps or Army if you do. There are more Black men in leadership roles in those two branches than there are in the Navy. That way if something does happen, you have more people to turn to that are minorities.
Being black and in the military I've heard all this feedback/comments myself. I.e. The one that really got me is the fact that the way I walk is "intimidating" WTF does that even mean?
That means people are inherently afraid of you because they are intimidating. It is because there are people in the Air Force that are scared of people who don’t look like them or participate in the “political” bs as them of Corporate Air Force
You should be intimidating. Army 10 years my dude. There are some racists out there still, but they are very rare. Most white people are more afraid of your EO power than they are you being “intimidating “. It sounds like you just have wusses in your workspace
This is DEI in effect in today’s military. I am brown and down 1st generation in America and retired from the USMC with no problems. I retired before DEI policies. Thank you for awesome opportunities in America!
As a propulsion engineer, I’ve thought about going into the Air Force, but this is a large reason why I stayed away. At least with corporate I can move to another company.
This is true. Corporate America doesn’t value you any more than the military but at least you can just get another job. The military feels like a lifetime decision.
@@rtwo4570 I’ve heard that the military on a whole is the most racist institution in America! I don’t know how anything could be more racist than anything else though, racism is racism.
@@thefuture5572 statistically, the occurrence and encounters are higher because you are in a concentrated area with, let’s face it, a lot of white men from rural USA who probably have never interacted with other races except through a tv screen.
So true, that contractual military obligation comes with quite a number of teeth in the bite - you can walk away, but jail time is the resulting penalty.
Sorry and sad for your experience Sir and that of all Blacks in the military and throughout our society. The human race has been dealing with the same flaws since the beginning of time and while we have advanced in many areas, we are still dealing with those same flaws and failings. Hope your future work helps us affect a change.
If a war broke out he's the last man in the force I would trust he probably abort mission or eject to not die for his country that's what he sounds like
@@pleasedontdoxme6237 he absolutely doesn’t at all. He was willing to put his life on the line to fly one of the worlds most high tech planes. You sitting in a dark room behind your keyboard clearly doesn’t understand that change makes the world a better place.
@@vasilirikardsson This whole interview seemed to go over your head. Derrek was talking about his experiences in the military, not a bunch of superficial qualifiers.
As a USAF current member I would like to believe it’s changed from 30 years ago. I know discrimination exists I’m not ignorant to the facts, but I don’t think it’s the same from when you served. The entire AF loved the last CMSAF Wright “Enlisted Jesus” and this young man as an F22 pilot. Great leaders. Black leaders. I just hope the advice this pilot received prior to joining did not hinder his perception of his hardships. Meaning did he think that because it was hard, or because he was counseled on his “being quiet” was only because he was black. My question is was it just as hard for everyone, but did he think it was made harder for him only because of his race? Because someone told him before he joined to “conform”? And that bad advice stuck throughout his military career and kept the image of its harder for me because I’m a black man? It seems the pilot was extremely successful due to his hard work. Very intelligent, skilled man! I do wish for the day I do not have to ask these questions and everyone is treated equal. I love my black brothers and sisters. We all bleed blue in my eyes and I will not tolerate discrimination, or hate! Thank you for your service.
He should learn from history it shows this is nothing new blacks helped America when a lot of wars my dad was a vet proud to serve but until this country fight for us the way we fought for this country we shouldn’t joint the military.
@@Cardeamuzic No I didn’t, you are. How about all the whites that marched with MLK and passed voter rights and equal rights in the 60s? Those were white Republican Men. As I’m slowly dismantling your claim that whites have never fought for blacks in this country let me add, I appreciate your Father’s service.
@TH-cam sucks Why are you so invested in being a victim? My wife is Asian, struggled in America, I’m Irish, struggled in America, why is it the Black Community’s struggle is greater than anyone else? Stop being victims!!!! Start being the solution!
Huge loss for the Air Force. I guess we're going to claim he's a DEI project as well right? Can't have a black man that's actually better than most pilots and earned the right to fly the F22 fighters.
Certain positions, DEI and nepotism just don’t work. U either have what it takes or u will fail immediately
Yep even if you have what it takes you have to be very lucky to get there because I was there...
This is what every white commenter here will say.
They always do
Racism is jealousy! If it wasn’t for the black fighters the Tuskegee air men they would have lost the war!
It’s like this for black men through out America not just in the Military
Yeah not acceptable to be ghetto… sorry
The song Pohlease by Kamau
🎯…..of course…….and that’s how YT folk want it…….even though they say otherwise
Add this to the UK also! Inspirational none the less!!
@@buddydc3829idk why our ppl wanna be together with others that historically hatred us for hundreds of years.
But we will forever hold this false hope.
I did 5 years in the NAVY as a SEABEE. It was 5 years of hell. I couldn't believe how racist the U.S.MILITARY was. It was a shame because i had aspirations. But i will never allow aspirations to override my dignity and integrity as a man. I am a man first and always.
✊🏾
@@goodguy...badrep. Thank you for your service to this country.🙌🏽❤
You couldn't, believe how racist it is. Have you read any history books. Ever heard of the Tuskagee Air men, and why that unit was even formed.
@@tonyrebel63It is extremely common for black people to be detached from our history.
How long ago was this?
They seem like they will always have an issue when you’re better.Never let THEM break your spirit. Stand strong.🫡
Black men don't get that comfort.
Better at what? Basketball😂
ABSOLUTELY 👍🏾
@@NeygarzruinedAmericaAnything we apply ourselves to. You needed Neygarz to create America. Just accept it.
@@NeygarzruinedAmerica Yeah, you're the problem. Trash raised by trash raised by trash. You should be proud.
This is the same in corporate America. I'm 6'2, chocolate and i have a deep voice. When I walk in meetings and I'm the only Black man, I know they are intimidated. It's not a good thing, especially in negotiations. You get ganged up on. People sometimes disagree just to try a take the power they think i have away. I have to maintain the adjustment all of the time.
good explanation of what ive witnessed too. I always wondered about the ganging up part.
Sounds so fabulous to me 6'2 and CHOCOLATE! WEAR YOUR 👑 NUBIAN KING!❤️🖤💚
Stay encouraged
Change the title, 60 Minutes. He didn't FEEL like he went through what he did, he actually DID go through it.
Oh, you mean they changed the narrative to how they want it or see it?
Blow me down!
No BS made up in his head. He is now where near intimidating. Leftist non sense all of it.
Exactly. It wasn't his imagination.
Exactly thank you.
WORD.
He does intimidate them. Not because he’s physically intimidating because he’s black and just as qualified or more qualified than them. That intimidates them.
Yes, They say we need to pull ourselves up by our boot straps, but get absolutely horrified when we do. Tulsa massacre is a great example of it.
This is a form of envy but I am surprised that America regards to it as a form of intimidation.
This officer seems brilliant and capable of succeeding even in his new career just as he did while in the airforce.
His openess about his experience is a good revelation for if such conversations will be heard time and again, it might change the narrative to help advocate the welfare of a black man and woman in the airforce.
All the best to him.
@@selsahmwishen2981 when you have done wrong and you understand that wrong, you become aware of the perceived comeback from those youve wronged. You begin to look at your own shadow waiting for that moment of retribution. Thats why theyre so easily triggered by CRT or even teaching of American history centered around Black people, because it has evidence of all the wrongs theyve committed, we have the privilege of them documenting it for all of us. But, hes a fighter, as a fighter pilot and now as a future attorney. Wouldnt be surprised to see him become president. So, I thank all those caucasoids for awakening a beast, a threat, in the best possible way.
🤣🤣 American blacks .. you do not realise how much self loathing and projection you reveal in your ignorant comments.
You all sound like BLM talking points.
You yourself cannot say others are intimidated by you.. thats up to OTHERS TO STATE .. saying yourself is intimidating is just narcissism.
Black Americans love to say how racist their country is, yet have NEVER TRAVELLED to China, Jordan, Qatar, UKRAINE, Saudi Arabia 🤣🤣 if i could pick 1 of you and pay your trip i would to any of those countries. Very quickly you would be begging to go back to America.
FACT their are 1.7 MILLION BLACK MILLIONAIRES IN AMERICA
The country with the MOST BLACK MILLIONAIRES IS THE USA
As a non American i see most black Americans MAKE EXCUSES & PRESUMPTIONS of racism holding them down.
If America was TRULY RACIST THEIR WOULD BE NO OR ONLY A FEW RICH BLACKS in America.
Face it you are in a 72% WHITE COUNTRY. If you go to Nigeria SURPRISE SURPRISE ITS 98% BLACK but you wont see the whites that live their bitching and complaining.
Black Americans love to play victim, make excuses and put in minimum effort and instead of SAVING YOUR MONEY, EVEN IF ITS ONLY A FEW DOLLARS HERE & THEIR you would be bettef off.. but no the second you get money in your hands you blow it on dumb things instead of saving. JUST LIKE WHITE TRAILER TRASH WITH THEIR WELFARE CHEQUES..
Get out of your PITY PARTY, STOP BLAMING OTHERS FOR YOUR LIFE CHOICES, CUT OFF YOUR LOSER FRIENDS HOLDING YOU DOWN and make something out of yourself.
@@kevingomez-johnson140 yet here you are keeping racism alive by making EXCUSE AFTER EXCUSE 🤣
Who is surprised ... not much has changed since the Tuskegee Airmen ... who were the best at what they did ........
facts
You must have watched that corny movie. Tuskegee airman is a stretch. They lost aircraft in their charge and they were in a back area action in Italy. They didn’t get near the real heavy combat. Fact . I studied ww2 history my whole life. Tuskegee pilots have a lot to be proud of for sure but that movie was not that accurate and most of the movies about ww2 involve a lot of made up stories. They definitely were very good pilots,
Congrats, we’re all proud of your service.
How does he get away with giving an interview in uniform??? Violates UCMJ unless they let him!
How many kids did she have? 6 months off flight status for each one!?!? Thank God for drones!
I went through the same thing, was told flat out, the Air Force does not want black Pilots.
I was told special forces was a good ol boy network
Simple they like and want those jobs and they don't want any competition
Told by who? If you were told that by someone in authority, you could and should have filed an EO complaint. There may still be something that can be done.
@@davidf7572 its always buried in the end, we know there are well meaning people just not in the right spots sometimes unfortunately.
@@davidf7572File a complaint.... that would have went straight in the garbage after it reached a certain level in the COC.
The hate is real ... I retired from the USAF and worked in the office that was responsible for addressing these concerns and let me tell you ... it's bad .. the standards aren't even close and it's especially worst in the pilot community
I can wholeheartedly attest to this as well. I retired after 30 yrs and worked at THE office responsible for increasing DEI. They paid a well known research group thousands of $$ to look into how unjust african American males are being disproportionately punished compared to their white male counterparts of a similar crime and the results were not surprising. Where are those results now? Buried or burned somewhere. One only needs to look at how many men of color (and no woman) has been in charge in the 40 plus years of the AF to know that racism and bias still exists. Its not blatant, but believe me, it's there
Thank you for your service, were you EO?
@@ginascott3402 yup
@@contactpq I can only imagine the complaints you received. I just retired as a MSgt on 1 Aug 24 after 23 years of being a cop. I couldn’t take it anymore the treatment I experienced and saw. Nothing has changed and it’s only getting worse unfortunately.
Social Actions?? How does he get away with giving an interview in uniform??? Violates UCMJ unless they let him!
I'm black, a veteran of the Vietnam war that followed five older brothers to serve in the army. After four years, I requested a discharge because of racism. We have tried to be part of America by helping to build this divided nation and even after giving lives to do so, we are still oppressed.
You call your own, "brothers".
What are the rest of us?
See the problem?
I never said that you were not my brother, I'm talking about the brothers from my mother.
@@tomlee7956another triggered one who can’t read and comprehend… always ready to dismiss and deflect. He was referring to his birth brothers. 🙄
@@tomlee7956 always ready to dismiss and deflect unable to comprehend. He was referring to his birth brothers. 🙄
@@tomlee7956slow as hell
You can change laws but you can’t change what’s really in the hearts and minds of some people.
Amen!
Correct. Until a society collectively understands and acknowledges systemic racism as social currency we will never cross the starting line.
D. Wright the problem is your getting mad at the average joe for systematic racism. What you fail to realize is it’s not the average joe it’s the higher ups in corporation military or not
@@snipinmonsta Keen observation.
@@snipinmonsta A. Who’s mad? B. Failure? C. Aren’t the “higher ups” you make reference to part of a collective society? I don’t understand your point as a “keen” observation? In fact, it feels more like blame shifting instead of truly understanding the underlying problem. Correct me if I am wrong but there were plenty of average joes involved in the 1/6 insurgency.
I’m be been told this same thing... I was told that I had to smile more to make people feel comfortable. Yup. I’m tired of padding other people’s insecurities.
facts
you must be a white guy
@@BigSmartArmed who, me? White?
@Krazee Kracka MAN Yeah I hear ya! Damn Magatards keep living in the past when there was segregation and minorities knew their place!
@Krazee Kracka MAN when America pays reparations for hundreds of years of slaves labor, we good...
What is MOST intriguing to me is that people will fight to the death disputing this! My father and myself are former AF officers and listen when I say! There is BLATANTLY BIGOTRY in the service! All branches I might add. My father went to the academy and he experienced it there too. It takes very strong men to get through these experiences. It’s nothing new it’s likely not to change
It’s everywhere. Once you accept that it exists and isn’t going away you learn to navigate it. One thing that can’t be taken away is knowledge, this bothers them to no end. You take that and start your own business. It’s why I got out of the AF in ‘92 and never looked back. Met some great people who I’m still in touch with today but that’s about it
Black people are amazing despite insurmountable odds we're capable of great accomplishments. So proud of this young man and the others. They're all examples of true grit heart and soul. Blessings to you all. 🙏 ❤
Can you imagine how great so many of us could be if we just didn't have to nurse other people's insecurities and fear under the title of racism.
All designed to keep us chasing our own tails. Always being told what we have to pretend with true blue racist fearful cowards to achieve or progress.
Don't make them feel bad, right. Because we don't have "feelings".
With a Harvard law degree, this man is set for life. He'll earn far more than any major can make
As a F-22 pilot as well! He has a top of the pile resume for any aviation job he might want
This Is Not The Narrative
@SuperDave Miorgan thanks. maybe he should have joined Tuskegee where he could be himself? or the NBA?
@SuperDave Miorgan the 20 trillions dollar debt, all that money up in smoke.
@SuperDave Miorgan
Well that was quick!
It wasn’t long before the white sheet and hollowed pillow case came out, was it now?
He looks like the least intimidating person I have ever served with.
EXACTLY!!! Looks like a nice man.
Because it’s all lies
@@alexmark8917 yes You are all lies
@@ciello___8307 How can he be a lie when he’s typing comments? That makes no sen...wait...you’re Italian, yes..? 🤔🤣
I was going to say. He looks and acts like a very nice person. His voice isn’t “very deep.” Too many white people don’t grow up around any black people and thus don’t realize that there isn’t much difference. The vast majority of the white men in the military are larger and more tough than this man. What a joke.
The very reason the United States have such a difficult time winning, too many unnecessary battles within.
Unfortunately, these battles ought not exist but we are in the real USA where race, especially our race in the military is a battle we need to win. We only want to be seen and treated as non people of color. I know I am a navy veteran.
This!!!!!
😔
America as a whole. Can't compete when somebody dumb cousin is running the company. Fing idiots.
We dont win becuase of diversity. UK is a crappy shell of an empire of what it was thanks to DIVERSITY. Same for France
One of France greatest soldier is a black American by Name Eugene Bullard. He ran from jim crow at 11 yrs old and travel to France at 14 years old, became French most decorated soldier. French president came to America after WW2 and met with him, American Roosevelt said to him France owe you gratitude but America only recognized him 35 years after he dead. African American were some of the best fighters in WW2.
An ex F-22 Pilot with a Harvard Law Degree. Yeah, this man is definitely going places. I hope he keeps them piloting skills clean though.
@King ABADDON It's about time you had your own state , governed by and for your own people..
@King ABADDON Absolutely!!
A pilot with law degree? Wow
He will likely join a reserve unit. He only has 8 years to go to retirement.
They will see that he does not !
Man, you know his resumé has to be amazing when there are no racist TH-cam comments about him being a crybaby or “playing the race card,” “Go back to Africa.” He’s so good he’s got the racists speechless.
You are actually on to something when you say Go back to Africa. Here you will be treated with dignity and respect and you can actually control the means of production. In the USA they just don't know what to do with you after they "invited you over". Start by visiting an African country as a tourist, get to learn the culture and build from there.....
That's beyond excellence! Can't imagine the grit and drive that took him to achieve it and I've been black in high pressure situations like that myself. He's better than most of us out here, all colors considered.
He talks to much…. Stops talking he thinks he’s to good 😅 what 😅
Racism has nothing to do with a person's skin pigmentation. Racism comes from the wicked human heart.
Hell is littered black racists, white racists, hispanic racists and Asian racists.
Matthew 25:41, Revelation 20:11-15
It is a good thing for all of us to examine our own hearts when looking at other people.
Well thats because 99.9% of white males cant even sit in the dame room as him let alone even think about degrading him.
*When you have love for a country that doesn't love you back.* 😶
When you complain about everything and claim your a victim.
@@BasedU.S.parriot1776
*When you're such a COWARD that you have to comment from a TROLL account.* Show *your* face, COWARD. Are you one of those TRUMPAZEES wanted by the FBI? I want some of that reward money. Betcha won't show *your* face, COWARD. 🥶🥶🥶🥶🥶🥶
P.S. Get some education and learn the difference between *YOUR and YOU'RE,* idiot.
Would it be any different in another country?
@@jamilsalih9724
Would what be different?
@@Junkman2008 how a black person would be treated . Is it possible that the United States isn't the only systemtically racist westen country ?
Blessings to this Hero. Thanks for your service. May you succeed more.
He is an F22 fighter pilot. He has the skills so treat him with the respect that is due him. We are our own worst enemies. Good luck to you sir!
How could he discriminated if he’s flying an f22
I mean let’s be honest he was flying an f22. Maybe he didn’t feel like he fit the culture but so what. Should the whole squadron change or should he. This is coming from me a black man and it’s an honest question.
@@kills456 I have worked with high performers who are high on life. They're generally misunderstood and misunderstand themselves. Tricky situation, people from different cultures coming together with different ways of doing things, bound to me fireworks. Same happens with medical students who come together.
@SuperDave Miorgan ~ The audacity of white privilege. Many cultures built America. Through wisdom, most will live a comfortable lie instead of being stripped in truth. The count up is real, so is our last breath .
He took the training, then split, costing the taxpayer millions.
Dam, Air Force Academy, now Harvard Law. Mans gonna be educated to the max. Keep your head up man. You’ll do great things.
He will not succeed in law school either,I knew a lot of black lawyers that's quite,US state sponsored of racism should stop the world had move on but US till left behind.
John 3:16For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son so that whoever believes in him should not perish but have ever lasting life
“You’ll do great things.” Wtf?! He’s already done great things 😂
All that means nothing in AmeriKKKa.
He's probably ate up. He's not in law school, he's planning on law school.
Flew with this man at IFF great instructor with a wealth of knowledge... incredible fighter pilot with amazing precision. Happy to see him on here
Sounds like he hates you though.
@@laserhobbyist9751 none of you cannot relate and honestly I dont expect you to understand as you are part of the problem. I'm absolutely sure what race you are that's for damn sure
@@49ersfoldem I'm sorry but even the strongest man cry I know but it's not because I have white privilege it's because I see what's going on around me and it is ridiculous everybody has a hard time no matter the color of your skin except unless you're white these days or a straight white guy people need to get a grip on themselves and quit using race as a problem that is what is ununiting humanity God bless all those who are truly blind and cannot see the truth and bless all of us that know and understand what it is like to be discriminated against and it's every single one of us every day be praying for everybody that thinks they're the only ones we all go through it I've been arrested in handcuffed and everything at a young age and threw around like a a full grown man and nobody cried because I was white I guess it's a shame that people are still pulling the color of the skin cards it's right out sickening of all races were slaves at one time or another people's forgot their history and don't realize the freedoms they have because of strong military heroes true Patriots don't forget where you come from and don't forget what your ancestors have given you God bless and keep good knowledge amen and praise God hallelujah and Jesus name I have prayed Amen... 💯♥️✝️🙏🇺🇸⚖️🌎✌️👌❤️🤍💙🙌
@@randytrivitt6539 so you dont believe that racial discrimination still exist?! Do you believe a black man with dreads is going to get that executive office position for example
@@stevenjones916 Sounds like you hate him though. Or, perhaps you're just hateful, period.
I’m Mexican and deal with this everywhere I go not just at jobs or school, but restaurants, stores, everywhere even just walking minding my own business
Intimidating?? He’s a US solider around other US soldiers how can you be intimidated by him? I’ll say it for him sounds like an excuse to cover your racism.
or his racism!
Other races are always intimidated by black people
he’s not a soldier, he’s an airmen and it’s not usual for black people to be pilots in the air forces which causes chemistry racism when you start working with white airmen. please sit down, this is a situation
@@Oba_kwaku not always true homie.
This comment must not understanding the history of becoming a pilot when pilots began , first and foremost you had to be within a family of wealthy backgrounds before even considered . Secondly when they come to find out that all they had was privilege pilots that was within pilot seats and no brains really to further the skills and rhythm to the power that surrounded them , MEANING people of color is and always have been hard at getting deep down and dirty into understanding what makes things work and after they find out other parts of there brain clicks in to understand the needs to apply the skills . The only thing is people of color Don't discriminate who the teach and allow to be apart of . This isn't about color , this topic is about "THE GREED OF POWER" that people in power is stuck still looking dumb on as the country moves on . How about that ??? Lol I noticed people hold fast for someone like me to pop in on some of the dumbest comments people make as if ignorance is dam normal . Ignorance is the brain of the privileged pilots . This is why they needed brains other than the average privileged pilots being pushed favorably with wealth throughout pilot schools .
Same here in the British army, if they see three of us talking together it's a problem mate. Who knows it feels it 🙄
This is called paranoia.
@Zakaria Ali The "ellites" are far more racial diverse than you think (in the UK anyway) Just look at the tory cabinet or the percentage of non White's at Eton.
Black ppl can't gather in white countries nowhere without the police showing up.
@@andreadavis1770 Every large metropolitan area disproves this.
@@andreadavis1770 I wonder why
As a Black American Airman I am proud to be serving with you sir! Thank you for standing up and being a voice for all of us! #Can'tKeepUsOut#
@Austin Bennett Exactly!!!! I'm a black male who served. People who I served with were super nice and respectful. Some of the examples the media look for are products of the hiper sensitive, media propped-up, insane world we live in, were people see evil in everything, and no assumptions of good intentions are ever bestowed. The press loves this kind of nonsense. I knew they write a story about it. Not even our sacred military will be spared their grievance-peddling train --- Leave the military and the wonderful people serving in it alone. Go find other serious stories to cover.
@@HusseinDoha You're a copy and paste troll , 1st class.
Thank you for your service
The people that scream "Diversity hire" are awfully quiet.
IM A 61 YEAR OLD WHITE MAN AND ARMY VETERAN. I WANT TO SAY THAT I AM VERY PROUD OF THIS YOUNG MAN AND HIS ACOMPLISHMENTS GRADUATING FROM THE AIR FORCE ACADEMY AND HIS STRONG DETERMINATION TO SEE HIS TRAINING PAY OFF ALL THE WAY TO THE END. HE NEVER GAVE UP! I ADMIRE AND RESPECT HIM FOR THAT !! I GREW UP AN AIR FORCE BRAT AND WAS ALWAYS ATTENDING SCHOOLS THAT WERE DEVERSIFIED. I THEN AS I DO NOW, APPRECIATE THAT FACT. I WANT TO SAY TO MAJOR DANIEL WALKER, HOLD YOUR HEAD UP HIGH, AND BE PROUD OF YOURSELF. CARY ON YOUR LEGACY FOR YOUR SONS AND OR DAUGHTERS. I AM PROUD OF YOU, AND AMERICA IS PROUD OF YOU ! ......................AIRBORNE !!!
People don’t need the media to help create a narrative of what they experience in every day life. These experiences shared like this pilot are real to him regardless of media coverage.
@@dsolo3250 right....Black people should just be quiet. It's not like your being attacked by dogs and being marginalized 🙄
@@dlitefulone You should go back to sleep.
@@lastmanstanding6675 no u should go back to sleep kid
Did you have to say you are white
I can definitely identify with this. While in USAF, at a muscular 6’5, 220lbs I was often told to not speak with so much bass in my voice so i don’t intimidate my superiors.
Same
You wouldn't have had any problems with bass in your voice in the Marine Corps, LOL. Semper Fi......
What?
What a bunch of Pu$$ies. How can they be your "Superiors" if they are intimidated.
Them telling you that is like telling a Lion to put his tail between his legs when passing a bunch of Hyenas. 😅
Plainly, it is good for most (if not all) of us to have dudes like you on our side. And, if by chance, you happen to also know how to sing, all the better😁. You could have been one of their unforgettable best buds. You've actually shared very little about them, but that little fills in so much. It's 👍to be you.
Judge a person by there actions not by the color of there skin. 👍
A long time we a seah that dont work in the white man world.!
Not in this country!
I'll always second that!
America missed that for 300+ years...
Generally speaking we're a dumb species. Hundreds of years have passed and we still have insecure & superficial prejudices against fellow humans.
No wonder aliens haven't bothered spending time on this planet or made themselves overly known to us.
I would have enjoyed running into you in Cambridge. I would have loved to shake your hand. I used to tell my nephew " there's nothing scarier to a racist is a intelligent black man with a college degree."
Thank you for your service and congratulations on acceptance to Harvard Law School. Your uncle is proudly watching you from above.
God bless.
I didn't see a black man. I saw a well trained educated man that served his country in one of the most extreme jobs there is. Fly on Sir!
He is not black. People around him do.
It was the individuals he had to work with that saw his skin color
Nahh, I saw a black man
I didn't even have to see his skin....I could tell he was black by that straight-out-of-the-hood haircut. WTF is that?
That’s the issue, Russ-I need you to see that I am BOTH black and a well-trained person who served. This way when someone is mistreating me, he or anyone else based on color/race/etc that you CAN see it and maybe be an ally. This colorblind doesn’t work.
F-22 fighter pilot AND Harvard Law School? My jaw is on the floor in awe.
I served in an MP Battalion in Germany with a black officer. This officer came to the Army because of the chances to be treated properly. We had some pretty frank conversations about race. The officer said the Army was not perfect, but was far ahead of the civilian world when it came to equal opportunity.
That's because the military has rules and regulations that aren't as easy to circumvent as in the civilian world. 😎
@@Darknamja That is true, but those rules are written under the umbrella of mission readiness. Good leaders are color blind because they want the best people so as to be successful. Don’t get me wrong, bigotry exists, but not like the civilian world.
I can agree with that since I come from a military family but much work needs to be done.
The army treats everyone like their black.
@@kekistanimememan170 um noo 🤡
Jealous is dangerous!!!!!!!
WTF? These are people in the MILITARY who are intimidated by a tall, black man with a deep voice?
Yes they are very racist in the military just go in as a POC in a majority white unit they feel emboldened because you are the minority.
Inferiority complex
Some Yt people obviously....
Welcome to the United States.
You only here one side of the story. Don't believe avery thing u hear on 60 Minutes.😊
Even as a enlisted man, I was faced with the same comments/feedback. If you excel your told to tone it down, but if you are perceived as lacking you are railed/weeded out systematically. The old saying of "know your place".
AF enlisted as well. I remember that one and I would just tell them I know my place, It's just one step ahead of you(sir, if applicable)
A military that tolerates Discrimination how they succeed in a military conflict????
@@hubertpounall1323 I was in the Army and my experience was with a combat unit. When bullets are flying everyone quickly figures out, who the real men are, and the racial bs goes out the window. The problem for me was when we returned home. Over there I wasn’t afraid or concerned about rank or politics. It was all about survival for myself and my guys. Being back in states the end for me.
@Human Peeing don't. At least don't join for combat. Join the Navy. Learn a trade. Develop a skill.
@@mattmarzula Last time I counted there were at least 75 Military specialties that were civilian related which were not combat-related.
This is how The Ottoman Empire defated itself in ww1. Infighting.
Blame Whites who hide try to hide their racism.
@@travelingjohn69 Actually, you cant understand a simple sentence.
A nation founded on slavery that lasted for way too long- which was never apologized for.
@@PassportBrosBusinessClass Can you with a straght face tell me that noone of your forefathers wasnt slaveowners.
@@aon10003 One is not beholden to or responsibile for his forefather's actions.
Retired US ARMY Apache pilot here - it’s crazy how WE all have the same experience regardless of the branch of service. The LTG political correct response at the end sounds too familiar..not calling it out because he is part of the problem - white solidarity ✌🏾
Any minority in the military will face some type of discrimination in their military career. I myself as an Asian -American combat veteran faced a lot of discrimination. Typical statement I always hear “Open your eyes when you shoot.” My blood boils inside, but I kept my cool and just push forward. I never regret joining the Army, best decision of my life & loved serving.
Ya try being black
@Faith Thornton Was?
Sorry man, there's no excuse. I like to think I wasn't a part of the "isms" in the military, but I know I laughed and commented when I shouldn't have. I wish we'd all just see the uniforms and thre brilliance or stupidity only from the individual wearing the uniform.
Bad stuff..glad you got past it and found joy in the service.
Thank you so much for your service. Good to know. My son is native american. Will be leaving soon. I hope he has the best experience.
This guy had the final laugh, not only did he have an amazing accomplishment of becoming an F22 pilot( I mean just grasp that, dude is flying an air-superiority stealth fighter) kudos to him, but then he goes an gets accepted in Law School at Harvard, props to you man, big respect!!💪💪God bless you.
affirmative action
and he was back seat not pilot
@@dubb9020 Err, umm, there is NO backseat/WSO position in the F-22... is there?
@@dubb9020 It seems that your mind is in wrong location,where the sun doesn't shine .The F22 is the top Air Force fighter,To become an F22 pilot ,you must be very smart and skilled.
@@dubb9020 Affirmative action was giving millions of acres of Native American land to white Anglo European settlers. Affirmative action was giving only white WW2 vets the GI bill and housing act. Affirmative action was always racist.
F-22 pilot, now the face of discrimination in the AF, going to Harvard law...anyone else seeing a future in politics for this guy?
The next Obama
@Amend the Constitution to Remove Pathological Liars If you don't love Ted Cruz then you ain't a constitutionalist. If you don't love Ted Cruz then you ain't a Republican. If you don't love Joe Biden, you ain't black.
A career in Hollywood as well
He's a great actor
It's so obvious lol
somebody has aspirations for more power than a f22 can give him!
i hope so. seems like the type of person who should lead our country.
I spent 30 years in the Air Force and 100% I was discriminated against to the point it affected my career and constantly dealt with the "you're intimidating" nonsense.
God bless you my brother.
Congratulation from black African malanesian from west Papua Jayapura Indonesia.
This exemplifies the true black males, that most commonly "intentionally" goes unrecognized! I'm so proud of him and I pray that the young black males (that I try to educate and try to turn into young black educated "adult" males), can recognize his achievements and be convinced to follow their own dreams, so as to not live their present nightmares! In my mind; this man will always be top brace in all of his endeavors! "Yoshuah" blessing for life young man....
This interview with an F-22 Pilot is very truthful. I myself was in the military in the mid 70's - 1975 -1981. Learned how to fly while in the Army and can say all those years ago I faced the same racist comments that this F-22 Fighter pilot faced. Things have not really changed in the military. Only the perception that things are better. But success is the best antidote for what he experienced. I myself went on the fly and had a successful Engineering career and retired. Kudos to this brother for speaking up and speaking out.
Kudos to you sir!
That’s complete bs lol
Thank you, sir , for your service to our country and our community. we need more of you as a mirror for our youth, so that we can keep replicating and multiplying. Theres a whole lot of work to be done. rooting for him as he goes into a different arena, to become a different kind of fighter.
@@johnconner4695your bs
@@brandonl375 naaa fam haha it’s the truth
Coming from Africa back to United States. I never understood racism until we moved back to the United States from Africa. It's a damn shame on what my African American brothers are going thru in the United States. It seems the system is set in the way to keep people of color in a trap. You have to be really exceptional to excel with the barriers set everywhere for people of color to fail. America isn't an equal partner for all races.
I can relate to that young brother. I was a black Air Traffic Controller in the Air Force. I was tall and had that deep voice, and yes I heard some of the same things! The rumor was I wasn’t going to make it through Air Traffic Control school, I was going to washout. But, I ended up graduating number 2 in my class, missing number 1 by 2 points. I went on to be featured in the Air Force Airmen’s magazine. I must admit, I really had a good time during my stay in the force, but as he felt the need to leave, I did too.
Damn, I was POL in the AF, and everyone not in ATC hears how crazy difficult that job is anyway. Blessings to you and yours brother.
The majority of people leave the service before 20 years regardless of race, sex or religion. I was enlisted in the USAF for 10 years. I prefer the military structure over civilian life but as an enlisted person the money will never be equal. I took my military skills to the corporate world. Is the corporate world more racist that the military? I would say so. So now what? Either start your own company or figure it out.
@@kevinx9225 You are right, I started my own company! This wasn’t about race, but like I said and I’ll say it again, I can relate to his story because the same thing happened to me!
As long as it's all fun and games with no real work involved it's all good. When you have to actually work, that's what makes a lot of people leave the service. 🪖🧈💩
This is just a great dude who's a badass which race should have nothing to do with!
true, but sadly a lot of ppl in Amerikkka will treat u based off the complexion of your skin & than play dumb when u call them out on it.
Reality hits you in the face
That's the thing.. We've been taught for far too long that we are different races.. We aren't.. We're just different skin tones. That's what is different.. Saying we are all different races is what these crazies get in their heads that we are less than.. Human beings is what you are, I am, this man is, and everyone else..
I thank you so very very much for being on the side of those of us that are seen as less than.. That means so much and again, I thank you! 🤭🤗🤗
Shouldn't have anything to do with it but that's America. Micro-aggressions every day on a daily basis must have driven him crazy at times.
A GREAT dude... who bombs poor dirt farmers, (who fight back with WW2 tech)so that the poppy and minerals can flow and the war machine contracts and the stonks... Oh the GLORIOUS stonks... can go up and up and UP!
Tuskegee airmen he is NOT!
Take it with a grain of salt (from a former USAFA cadet no less)... This guy will surely run for office, after he does a 2-5 year stint working in a top tier law firm where his firm's and his former law school's network will plug him right into high political office.
Just think, identity politics cripples just about every single populist movement (on the right or left) from affecting ANY meaningful change to the political system of the United States.
Wouldn't it be just so incredibly, deliciously, "convenient" if the slightest resistance to war or any act of political aggression, economic, military, or whatever... could be written off as RACIST?
I know the feeling.. I got out of the Navy for the same reason and got my MBA. The only thing is, the civilian sector is very similar.
I’m a retired AF officer, experienced the same thing, and found the private sector worse. I had one small company president I was interviewing with tell me that some of his employees are racist but I’d have to navigate that alone and work through the issues.
What EXACTLY is the common denominator you all are crying about??? Nobody gives SPECIFICS.. some boogey man or what?
@@perpetualretrograde9764 specifically the man above mentioned a supervisor who tolerated racism and left an employee to just figure it out. I've been at commands where opportunities were provided for caucasian officers that would make them more competitive and minorities were passed by or if you questioned the trend then you're a troublemaker or given a song and dance with ludicrous reasons why they made the decision to marginalize you. Then when all is said and done they explain their BS with statements like ducks vote for ducks. If you're blowing past this it's either you purposefully ignore this or you're part of the problem and don't think we deserve an equal opportunity. We only ask for the equal opportunity not equal outcomes.
@@josephjones6870 you know what I saw in the ranks? Everyone was treated as 2nd fiddle to the mission. Which is how it should be. There were sensitive guys that whined and complained. Those were the ones that ran the commo lines and did KP. Then they say it’s racism. Let’s not talk about who got in the most trouble off duty.... that is a whole other conversation. What I have seen through my life is people are treated by way of how THEY act. Now in private sector.. the people that run to HR over their feel feels getting hurt are avoided when all it usually is is a case of dishing it out but couldn’t take it. I have never been part of the “problem”. Maybe my whole life I have been too far down on the food chain to be able to see racism.
@GI C Sure those are problems... and it’s not exclusive to any one ethnicity.
Sounds like an incredible young man. God speed airman. We need more of you !!!
Wishing him the best at law school from a former USAF Vet.
He will be succesfull in any field he choose. God bless him!
Not if he promotes racial division he wont. Not in my book anyway.
John 3:16For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son so that whoever believes in him should not perish but have ever lasting life
@@diegoferrr6173 Save it. Today's troubles are beyond prayer
He’s an up and coming race hustler...Poor guy doesn’t even see it.
@@fleafarts3576 exactly
Boy do they have a method of breaking us down. Very similar experience in business. Took walk around trying to adjust who you are to make someone else feel comfortable is exhausting and leads to much distress.
Well said
Men from the past sure were tougher and they went through worst things than people now. Too much victim mentality. I did 13 years in the US Air Force as a Latino, and no even once I felt or noticed racial discrimination against me.
The best revenge is a success ride on young bro ✅
Aim high
"On young bro" ... lol cringe
@@eeuphoria9077 you’re probably the one that’s cringy to post this comment since you literally don’t have any likes and he has more then u lol
@@eeuphoria9077 Triple cringe! Who writes such unadulterated drivel?
@@codycrespin6021 would like to see someone talk like that on a job interview with top heads of a company or anyone in general. On god, on me, on my momma... the list goes on my friend lol. That just shows the IQ level on someone. You think I care about likes buddy?? I dont need likes to make me feel better or to boost my ego so get my frank out your mouth thank you brother. "Cody" let me guess you a wannabe "hood" type of person. Yall got some growing up to do...
"Deep voice"? "Intimidating"? Hmmm.
"... thay fella..." this guy lives in a house of mirrors, with no one in his life to pull him aside and give an accurate reflection... ;')
Maybe his wing(unspecified gender) is unhappy with the new setup. It's a new market. Women also need to try new adjustable gear. Give it time.
@Chimpanzee You better let 'em know.
The only people intimidated are talentless snowflakes who are frightened of real snowflakes.
White privilege expect black people to act like grateful puppies towards them. When that doesn't happen, they will work against you. All about power on their behalf!!!
Accepted at Harvard Law School. This guy has the final laugh because that's a big accomplishment and will likely do more in life compared to the others there.
He’s a race hustler.
If he’s having the final laugh then why is he complaining about it? he probably wanted to stay a pilot.
@@fleafarts3576 Future activist, I think
@@TheBanjo50 that's true, tbh, that is likely true.
@@28ebdh3udnav I know. And thanks for not digging your heels in and doubling down on your first assessment like most people.
Proud of this young Brother. My father’s first cousin was a Tuskegee Airman. He was a P-51 Mustang pilot during WWII. This Brother has done pretty well for himself, and think he knows it as well as his peers and superiors. Eleven years in the US Air Force to achieve the rank of major, he was on the fast track or as we say in the Army, he was fast tracking to be a General Officer(G.O). He reminds me of General Vincent Brooks, a West Pointer and an exceptional officer. The Major can always join the guard, fly, while attending Harvard Law. He is exceptional!
I don't find this young man intimidating in the least. He seems well spoken, very well trained, very educated, just an all around wonderful young man.
What some may find intimidating is his brilliance,
When your an evolved soul that's how you think when your not well you know
Oh shut up Lady.
@@StumpyComedyAct and you proved my point.
very sad.
Major Walker is an eagle among men... A beautiful rose that raised from dry soil..... God Bless
Blue Skies sir...
Don’t you mean a Raptor among men? ...........
...I’ll see myself out
Well said.
id rather be a human than an eagle tho
Puked my way out of N.A.S. Pensacola...did not get my Wings of Gold. You should have stayed and gotten Stars. Then, you can change the System and Culture. Semper Fi.....Steve the Marine
Do a black topgun ring Hollywood
GODBLESS this brother from a Puerto Rican may you touch the skies and the law makes you invincible we need more like you be blessed
Well said. I agree 100%.
He black tho
@@workingsix43another idiot who obviously don’t know how to read
He ain't Puerto Rican
@@corieydadon nobody said he was idiottt
4:53 This is the same in the fire service throughout this country....if you're a black fire officer....if you're not and too out spoken and don't rock the boat of the "good old boy network" you'll be rewarded.
I see a great representative of the US Air Force. Seems like intimidating is just another word for "too black" to be with the fly boys. How accomplished and educated do we have to be?? Perhaps we'll never understand.
Too Black! Too Strong!
I was denied 6 promotions in the Navy because as I was told "You have too much confidence in yourself and your fellow sailors were intimidated" ❗❓❗ It took almost 3yrs to finally get promoted, but even then there was pushback from other officers in my unit. I'd make them look bad by completing projects assigned to our unit ahead of schedule within weeks instead of months. Frickin crazy ❗❗❗
They can’t handle your Royal nature
You think that's crazy brother.... I had a gun pulled on me by a white police officer while in uniform while he knew I didn't have a weapon and wasn't a threat.
I was white, also in the Navy, and had the same experience. I'm as insecure as they come, yet somehow I come off as overbearing and intimidating. I've been told the same thing in civilian life.
@@RASAAH777 my mother and abuelita raised me right and to always believe in myself. I never wanted to disappoint them.
@@carefever5539 sorry that happened to you man..
No matter what, the gentleman has a resume that few will ever match. I’m eager to see how the rest of his life progresses. 👍
When you speak against the American Military you pretty much end your own career regardless of your race!!!
Resume: f 22 pilot so you can fly an aircraft that is discontinued and only available in the USA yeah I don’t think his resume is going to help him that much when he leaves the USAF
Guess you missed the Harvard degree part of his resume.
@@getstuffed2391 Actually, these guys are in very high demand and easily write their career from the time they solo in that jet. I know several Air Force aviators and they are all doing extremely well post Air Force. It's the reason that the military has such a significant pilot shortage. Wht are we having these problems in 2021.
He'll probably go into politics as he's already an accomplished liar!
I'm a black man, and I served in the A.F. I've never experienced racism, and ive served with all races, and all walks of life. with that said, I was enlisted. Its a totally different experience than OFC
Black AF retired here. Definitely saw it sadly...Fast Burned to E7 and experienced unease with me firsthand, namely because I just didn't fit the typical mold but led my Airmen the right way not necessarily the political way. Also, had black troops who were automatically not given a 2nd chance on things very fixable...Is what it is.
For most, the sky is the limit. For this man, his potential is limitless. Signed, a USAF Veteran. 🇺🇸
My Brother was a Pilot in the Navy...he dropped out after 4 years of flying. He said they treated him like crap b/c he was Black and a damn good Pilot like our Father and he couldn't move up in ranks. All the things this Pilot is saying is true. My Brother is now Captain fly for a Private Company between Europe and America.... he told his Son who want to be a military Pilot to not do it b/c of the stress levels of racism. Just sad.
Well spoken and shared story, unfortunately from my AF experience you don't have to be a glorified pilot to experience this level of racism. I worked in the Civil Energizing squadron and worked along side of civil service federal employees as well as the hierarchal military uniformed chain of command. Many airmen would aspire to work in the more lucrative private sector after their military careers were finished. As an AF commercial refrigeration and AC specialist I routinely saw the unwillingness of our civil service workforce, many who were Vietnam War veterans themselves, to train the black airmen in a competent manner. Routinely many higher level critical jobs were given to the white airmen to gain critical working knowledge and experience, while regulating menial jobs to the black airmen - essentially a measure instituted to dumb down our level of competence both in the AF that affected skill level promotions and rank upgrades. Periodically contractors from the private sector were upgrading or installing new commercial grade cooler and chiller systems. The high level GS foreman, would work with the NCOIC in handpicking white airmen to work alongside of those contractors gaining both critical working knowledge and post-service job seekers contacts for when their AF Careers were over. We black service members were intentionally stunted in both our AF Careers, and future private sector job opportunities by this strategic fashion of discrimination/racism jointly conducted by the GS civil service proponent and military rank and file, a lose/lose situation if you were a black service member in the USAF. This was in the 80s and 90s. I seriously doubt anything has changed for the better.
Welcome to tge United States!
I was a Marine Corps bandsman. being one of the few African Americans in the field, I felt that I had to set an example. After basic training, I attended the Armed forces School of Music. that's when I felt the pressures of being black in the military. Not wanting to make waves, I put up with the racism from quite a few of my fellow students and some of my Seniors. I was no exceptional student and the remarks and treatment weighed on me as I struggled through and passed the course. when I got to my first duty station, I felt welcomed there until I met the band officer who was on his way to a new duty assignment. At his farewell party, he spoke to me for the first time. Our new band officer, the second black band officer in the history of the Corps was present also. He told me to "come on in and have a seat next to my bother." That pretty much set the tone for the rest of my time in the service. I wanted to make a career out of the service, but I couldn't tell the difference between the wisecrackers and the bigots after a while. It affected me deeper than I had realized. I can relate heavily to this young officer's feelings.
When did you leave the service? I left the PI band in 1999
@christopherbrown9362 I left the Corps in 1988. I left PI in 1981.
I love the Air Force-it shaped my life and paid for all my education, leading up to my master's degree in computer science. But as a driven Black young man, I was told my ambition could put a target on my back. I used to lie about taking classes to avoid shade from senior management. In the Air Force, they’ll clip a Black man’s wings if you try to fly higher than their expectations. Despite that I love the Air Force and I appreciate everything -I’m just sharing my story.
This young man is makes the world around him a better place to be. World Class!
I really think we're looking at a future President
It happens in the Army also! Speaking from experience, been retired 3yrs now and remember those situations vividly!😔
@Tim O Enlisted
You remember getting discharged
@Tim O who cares what he retired as
@@ttdsi5745 yes
@@ttdsi5745 HONORABLY!
The saddest truth is the best and most talented people for the job always walk way because they are unrecognized by their employers. And the worst end up getting the job and they are not eve qualified for the position in anyway.
Lol you have no idea how the military works buddy
Seen here in the midwest of US. Sad deal.
@@NoonSlayer-wy6nd You are one of the racist enablers. Stfu.
Why is that? I heard a good comment from a radio commentator who made me realize that. He said ever notice the horrid dictators of countries stay in power?
This has been the story of most educated black Americans in the military and also corporate America. They are intimidated by our intelligence. They think all black Americans are like the characters they see on television from those reality shows. Unfortunately it’s an uphill battle because they are still in the majority of everything.
What I learnt after watching this: How i react to life’s situation is what ultimately counts.
From one AF vet to another as an enlisted aircrew, I too felt the pain, 20yrs and out.
Wow, ma man is the epitome of a real life movie character. Stealth fighter pilot and Harvard graduate lawyer.
Good one there Bro.I admire your objectivity .
I see. Systemic racism works...
@@anderstopansson someone being able to thrive inspite of systemic racism doesn't disapprove its existence. The treatment he and others before him received shows there's an real bias here, designed to keep more people like him out.
@@cooljen1 Christ, you will just say *anything* to cling to your delusional narrative about systemic racism.
With a deep voice :)
The whole point is that there are extremely talented black men and women who lose opportunity in the military due to racial bias or minor discrimination. When we already have a recruitment shortage in the military.
If there is ever a movie about this man, Denzel Washington comes to mind. All I can think of is his parents must be proud of his work ethic.
20 years ago maybe but Denzel is too old now. Perhaps Michael B. Jordan?
Denzel is too old
denzel is too old now, but maybe his son could play the role
You can tell this Young Man comes from Great Parents. You Go Young Man!!!!!
You have to have thick skin in the military. Regardless of your race. And the fact that he achieved his goal as an elite fighter pilot shows you that he was treated fairly. This story doesn’t seem 100% genuine.
I'm a Navy Vet. My dad Viet Nam, Uncles, Nam as well. Gramps, WWII. ALL OF US experienced plenty of racism when we served. My family actually tried to talk me OUT of serving, we left off on bad terms when I enlisted anyway. If you bring up that racism to your superiors, you get batted down. They cover for themselves. I'm glad I went and did what I did, but I only served one enlistment because of that racism.
Thank you for sharing. I was going to enlist, and decided against it after being informed of the racism by friends & family in the service
@Slim Pickens He would have to consider the ugly truth of WHO is going to protect his back.
@@maryrodger5130 Exactly. When I first arrived on board the Nimitz, one of the very first things I was told about repair division was that there was a lot of racism. That came from 3 black Petty Officers who were nearing the end of their enlistments. They also made it very clear to me that if I ever spoke up about it, things wouldn't go well for me. I had to just endure it, in silence.
@@bradcolby1 I would suggest Marine Corps or Army if you do. There are more Black men in leadership roles in those two branches than there are in the Navy. That way if something does happen, you have more people to turn to that are minorities.
@@shonuff2382 I appreciate it sir
Being black and in the military I've heard all this feedback/comments myself. I.e. The one that really got me is the fact that the way I walk is "intimidating" WTF does that even mean?
@⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ you can't speak about experiences YOU personally never went through.
@⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ are you African American? If not please stay in your place & not speak on others struggle
That means people are inherently afraid of you because they are intimidating. It is because there are people in the Air Force that are scared of people who don’t look like them or participate in the “political” bs as them of Corporate Air Force
You should be intimidating. Army 10 years my dude. There are some racists out there still, but they are very rare. Most white people are more afraid of your EO power than they are you being “intimidating “.
It sounds like you just have wusses in your workspace
@⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻ yeah, because i'm sure he went there to not do his job, eat candy and still get praised.
Endless Argument for the last 400 years.
This is DEI in effect in today’s military. I am brown and down 1st generation in America and retired from the USMC with no problems. I retired before DEI policies. Thank you for awesome opportunities in America!
As a propulsion engineer, I’ve thought about going into the Air Force, but this is a large reason why I stayed away. At least with corporate I can move to another company.
This is true. Corporate America doesn’t value you any more than the military but at least you can just get another job. The military feels like a lifetime decision.
@@rtwo4570 I’ve heard that the military on a whole is the most racist institution in America! I don’t know how anything could be more racist than anything else though, racism is racism.
@@thefuture5572 statistically, the occurrence and encounters are higher because you are in a concentrated area with, let’s face it, a lot of white men from rural USA who probably have never interacted with other races except through a tv screen.
So true, that contractual military obligation comes with quite a number of teeth in the bite - you can walk away, but jail time is the resulting penalty.
What a fine young man, I'm sure his parents are so proud.
What an amazing young man, break the obstacles
Would you be commenting the same if he was a white? Stop focusing on skin color
Sorry and sad for your experience Sir and that of all Blacks in the military and throughout our society. The human race has been dealing with the same flaws since the beginning of time and while we have advanced in many areas, we are still dealing with those same flaws and failings. Hope your future work helps us affect a change.
Exceptional young man. We were lucky to have him. Thank you for your courage and service 🙏🏽
He sounds like he hates his country though.
If a war broke out he's the last man in the force I would trust he probably abort mission or eject to not die for his country that's what he sounds like
@@pleasedontdoxme6237 Lol, you keyboard racists, haven’t even served. Go watch Faux News 😂
@@pleasedontdoxme6237 he absolutely doesn’t at all. He was willing to put his life on the line to fly one of the worlds most high tech planes. You sitting in a dark room behind your keyboard clearly doesn’t understand that change makes the world a better place.
@@nexusly6720 you’re dillusional
I went through very similar experiences 30 years ago while I served. I don't regret for one moment joining the USAF.
Harvard, black, deep voice, interviewed by 60 minutes?
@@vasilirikardsson oh gosh STFU?
@@vasilirikardsson This whole interview seemed to go over your head. Derrek was talking about his experiences in the military, not a bunch of superficial qualifiers.
As a USAF current member I would like to believe it’s changed from 30 years ago. I know discrimination exists I’m not ignorant to the facts, but I don’t think it’s the same from when you served. The entire AF loved the last CMSAF Wright “Enlisted Jesus” and this young man as an F22 pilot. Great leaders. Black leaders.
I just hope the advice this pilot received prior to joining did not hinder his perception of his hardships. Meaning did he think that because it was hard, or because he was counseled on his “being quiet” was only because he was black. My question is was it just as hard for everyone, but did he think it was made harder for him only because of his race? Because someone told him before he joined to “conform”? And that bad advice stuck throughout his military career and kept the image of its harder for me because I’m a black man?
It seems the pilot was extremely successful due to his hard work. Very intelligent, skilled man! I do wish for the day I do not have to ask these questions and everyone is treated equal. I love my black brothers and sisters. We all bleed blue in my eyes and I will not tolerate discrimination, or hate! Thank you for your service.
This is the reason my brother told not to join.
He should learn from history it shows this is nothing new blacks helped America when a lot of wars my dad was a vet proud to serve but until this country fight for us the way we fought for this country we shouldn’t joint the military.
So all the whites that died in the Union Army during the civil war doesn’t count? Some estimates have it higher than 360,000.
@@fleafarts3576 you totally missed the point
@@Cardeamuzic No I didn’t, you are. How about all the whites that marched with MLK and passed voter rights and equal rights in the 60s? Those were white Republican Men. As I’m slowly dismantling your claim that whites have never fought for blacks in this country let me add, I appreciate your Father’s service.
@TH-cam sucks Why are you so invested in being a victim? My wife is Asian, struggled in America, I’m Irish, struggled in America, why is it the Black Community’s struggle is greater than anyone else? Stop being victims!!!! Start being the solution!
@TH-cam sucks correct my fuck’n understanding of history.
Don’t get ur way so it has to discrimination…ur a F22 pilot so making it to that point proves u were NOT discriminated against.
Stay strong brother. Thank you for your service 🇺🇸
What specifically is he staying strong for? You dont even know of a specific example and yet your emotions are getting the better of you
@@rawfoodwriter HIS emotions...??? 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 Man, you people...!!! 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣