Blacks in the Military and Beyond thoughtfully chronicles the tumultuous journey of African Americans in the military from slavery through the present, examining how the armed forces have been used as a means for gaining legitimacy and as the ultimate path to citizenship. This unique book extends to both pre and post-service economic considerations as significant factors in determining whether serving in the military has indeed advantaged Blacks. Owing to the reality of the modern military, mechanisms such as the periodic drawing down of forces are studied in terms of their impact on Blacks overall. In its analysis, the book also delves into a variety of topics and issues, including how the military is a conduit in creating and sustaining the Black middle class and how the now repealed "Don't Ask, Don't Tell, and Don't Pursue" policy compares with the larger overarching values of the African American community. Most poignantly, Blacks in the Military and Beyond challenges the military to be more strategic as to the long term effects of its decisions in conjunction with its moral compact with African Americans.