Since the American Revolution, African American women have served in every U.S. military conflict. Despite this dedicated service to their country, very little empirical research has been published regarding African American servicewomen, including those who have served in the Gulf Wars. Seen through the eyes of eleven African American servicewomen, this book explores issues such as health care, child care, sexism/sexual harassment, racism, religion, military promotions/career advancement, and serving in combat zones. Their stories illuminate the types of professional, sociological, and interpersonal experiences black servicewomen have encountered during their time in the Gulf Wars.--Publisher description.

Marching as to war : personal narratives of African American women's experiences in the Gulf Wars -- Why we serve : an historical overview of African American women's military service from the Revolutionary War through the Gulf Wars -- "Sistahs" of defense : duties and dangers of African American women in service in the Gulf Wars -- My child left behind : the family and child care challenges faced by African American Gulf War servicewomen -- What happens in the desert stays in the desert : African American women confront racism and sexism in the Gulf -- Where my health comes from : African American servicewomen battle Gulf War illnesses.