Thanks for a thoughtful and informative response.

I was stationed aboard the USS Dubuque (LPD-8), a troop transport for my entire tour. The racism aboard ship was rampant, especially when we put to sea where there was nobody to complain to. There were about 50 brothers aboard, out of a complement of 435 sailors. We transported up to 2,500 marines and army guys to Nam two-three times a year. No black officers. We were always given the worst jobs, right down to scrubbing decks with toothbrushes.

We were openly and regularly called "niggers" and were written up for things the white guys did regularly. This was 1970-74.

I'm told that "things" have changed a great deal, and that the Navy now offers real opportunity to everybody. Even got women onboard ship.

I can't even imagine how bad "things" must have been during Miller's (and my father's) time in those days.

Thanks again.