"The military is often presented as a model of equal-opportunity employment. In this work, the author examines and challenges this assertion with respect to the Navy. First-hand accounts and interviews provide insight into the coping mechanisms and struggles of African Americans in the Navy"--Provided by publisher.

Equal opportunity and meritocracy in practice: inclusion or exclusion -- Life and career in the U.S. Navy -- Participants' profiles -- Barriers to full inclusion -- Mentorship -- Mertitocracy or myth to meritocracy? -- Resilience: How they coped -- Profiles in struggle and service -- Implications for Navy policies: a prescription for change.