Rise to Command

“Isaac Hampton brings his deep historical knowledge to these Conversations with Black Brass. He gives us—in multiple voices, through powerful memories—stories of men and women who served their nation in uniform. This book is absolutely necessary for anyone who hopes to understand the history and significance of Black Americans in the US military.”—Beth Bailey, author of An Army Afire: How the US Army Confronted Its Racial Crisis in the Vietnam Era

“Black servicemen and women since the founding of the nation-state have fought on two fronts, first against deeply entrenched white racism and second against the enemies of the United States. Isaac Hampton, in an excellent series of oral histories, has provided us with a first-hand account of the thoughts, concerns, insights, and emotions of Black military leaders who fought on two fronts in the post–World War II era. A must-read for all students of America’s wars.”—Adrian R. Lewis, author of The American Culture of War: The History of U.S. Military Force from World War II to Operation Enduring Freedom

“Isaac W. Hampton’s Conversations with Black Brass is a powerful example of the extraordinary insight that oral histories can provide us. Conservations with Black Brass width, depth, and diversity is impressive as Black men and women of the officer class of the American Armed Forces take center stage and tell their trials, tribulations, and triumphs, from World War II to the latter stages of the Cold War. It is a must-read and useful tool for those who study the history of twentieth century African American military service.”—Geoffrey W. Jensen, author of The Racial Integration of the American Armed Forces: Cold War Necessity, Presidential Leadership, and Southern Resistance

“Isaac Hampton’s important collection of oral history interviews makes a significant contribution to our understanding of the experiences of Black Americans in the armed forces. These detailed and poignant narratives show how Black officers have navigated the military and opened the door for future generations.”—Matthew F. Delmont, author of Half American: The Heroic Story of African Americans Fighting World War II at Home and Abroad

“Conversations with Black Brass is an invaluable resource for understanding the lives of a pioneering group of distinguished Black American officers, who, through dedication and determination, helped integrate and advance the US armed forces in the twentieth century.”—Thomas A. Guglielmo, author of Divisions: A New History of Racism and Resistance in America’s World War II Military