Growing Up in Uniform: My Journey as a Young Black Officer

Introduction

Joining the military was always in the cards for me. With a family legacy of service—my grandfather in World War II, my uncle in Vietnam, and my mother’s four brothers split between enlisted and officer ranks—it seemed like a natural progression. But while my early training experiences were familiar and predictable, it wasn’t until I became an active-duty officer in the Navy that I truly began to understand the weight of my role. This blog reflects on the pivotal moments in my military journey, from ROTC to becoming a young black officer navigating a unique culture, and how those experiences shaped me both personally and professionally.

The Natural Choice

Growing up surrounded by military service, enlisting felt like a foregone conclusion. ROTC in high school and college, boot camp between semesters,

and even jumping out of a plane during advanced training—all of it felt like a continuation of my family’s legacy. By the time I was commissioned as an Army Reserve officer, the transition seemed seamless, even routine. Training environments were familiar, and I navigated each new challenge with confidence. But this was just the beginning of my journey.

A Shift to Active Duty

The summer of 1995 marked a turning point.

Fresh out of graduate school, I was directly commissioned as a Navy officer. Initially, I thought this would be no different from my previous experiences—just another chapter in a well-worn story. Officer indoctrination school felt like a breeze compared to my earlier training. Yet, the true challenge began when I reported for duty. For the first time, the military wasn’t just a part of my life—it was my life.

Navigating a New Culture

Being a young black officer in a predominantly military town like Jacksonville, NC, was a unique experience. Unlike major metropolitan areas where diverse professionals abound, the community here revolved around the military. I quickly realized the significance of my identity—not just as an officer, but as a black officer. Interactions with peers, superiors, and even civilians carried a weight I hadn’t fully anticipated.

Finding safe spaces among other young black officers became a lifeline. Social gatherings provided a rare opportunity to be unapologetically ourselves, away from the scrutiny of rank and uniform. These moments of camaraderie and connection were transformative, showing me a new way to engage socially and professionally.

Growth in Unexpected Spaces

The biggest revelation during this time was how much I grew. Being surrounded by other young professionals—nurses, doctors, lawyers, all fellow officers—taught me the value of community and shared experiences. We weren’t just colleagues; we were a support system.

For the first time, I saw the power of moving intentionally in professional spaces. No longer was I just “having a good time”; I was building relationships, learning from others, and becoming a better version of myself. These experiences reshaped my understanding of what it meant to be an officer and a leader.

Conclusion

My journey as a young black officer was more than a career—it was a path of self-discovery and growth. Navigating new cultures and environments pushed me to adapt, reflect, and evolve. It taught me the importance of finding safe spaces, valuing shared experiences, and embracing the unique challenges that come with leadership. Today, I carry those lessons with me, grateful for the journey that shaped the person I am.