New ad racist?

[CommunityEditor]

Video: http://www.militarytimes.com/multimedia/video/061208mc_marine_video_leap/


Staff Sergeant Thomas Hill's own experience is the story behind this newest recruiting ad yet some claim it's racist. What do you think?


Racist recruiting? Marine Corps ad draws fire

The Marine Corps’ newest recruiting commercial aimed at targeting minorities tackles a long-running and often-controversial debate involving black American youth: swimming ability.

Called “Leap,” the commercial shows a young black man standing at a high diving platform overlooking a swimming pool.

“I faced one of the toughest challenges of my life right here,” the narrator says. “I couldn’t swim.”

Encouraged by his drill instructor’s urging not to give up, the man goes for it.

“So I jumped in,” he says. “Unsure, apprehensive and scared out of my mind. But I came up a Marine.”

The man emerges not from a swimming pool, but from open water, in face paint and combat gear. A rubber boat filled with Marines zooms by and pulls the man inside.

The ad reflects the real-life story of Staff Sgt. Thomas Hill, a senior drill instructor at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., according to a Marine recruiting Web site, our.marines.com.

Hill volunteered to tell his story when he heard the Corps was looking for ideas for a new commercial, according to the site. “He wants others who approach life the way he did to understand what being a Marine can do for them.”

The popular blog Gawker.com, however, derided the ad as “subtle stereotyping.”

“The Marines send a simple, straightforward message: ‘Hey, black people. We know you can’t swim. That’s okay! We’ll teach you how, and then let you ride in a cool boat, if you just sign up for the Marines now. Okay?’ ”

In 1993, then-Commandant Gen. Carl E. Mundy Jr. launched a storm of controversy by telling an interviewer on “60 Minutes” that whites outperform blacks in objective military tests, including swimming.

“In the military skills, we find that the minority officers do not shoot as well as the non-minorities… They don’t swim as well. And when you give them a compass and send them across the terrain at night in a land navigation exercise, they don’t do as well at that sort of thing.”

More recently, a retired Army reserve officer running for the U.S. House of Representatives in 2006 was videoed at a Christian Coalition making similar comments: “I grew up in Alabama and I understand and I know this from my own experiences that blacks aren’t the best swimmers or may not even know how to swim.”

The comments cost Tramm Hudson his shot at winning the Republican nomination for Florida’s 13th District.


Article: http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/06/military_swim_061208w/
Video: http://www.militarytimes.com/multimedia/video/061208mc_marine_video_leap/

[Sgt Grandpa]

Racist??? how in the name of all that is generic could this be racist?! Because he can't swim and jumped in anyway? Because the Marines taught him to overcome fear of the unknown? Because if it had been a Latino (or other hispanic background) guy it would have started a $H!T storm about illegals?

Ahh but had it been a white guy, then it would be racist since it didn't show some one of a different background. Or is it racist since it was a man and not a woman?

You can't win no matter what you do... somebody somewhere will find it to be "unacceptable". And our country is more tolerant than others?

[Unregistered]

Why does everything have to be racist. Do people got anything better to do then bitch bout how the military does things. All the ad is showing that the Marine was afraid of swimming, a common fear for alot of people. I mean come on people, we should beyond this garbage. What would a commercial of me being afraid of heights and telling people that the army help me get over that be racist.

[CoyKiz]

As a retired Army Officer, I have witnessed and been the target of plenty of racist remarks and stereotypes. I am of the opinion that this is not a racist ad campaigne. In fact, I embrace it.

[Unregistered]

It never fails that someone takes anything and makes it into something it's not, It is an ad to catch the eye and make someone possibly think of joining the Marines. (No I am not a Marine, retired Army)

[Former MP]

I agree with a lot of the others in their responses. This promo for the marine corps is in no way racist. It is only those looking to pick at it that makes it racist. I agree with others. If it were a white male. The minorities would be bitching that a minority didn't get to do the promo. C'mon people! But there are the rabble rousers out there like the Rev. Al Sharpton that have nothing better to do than bitch. So, I say let them bitch and life will go on.

[Unregistered]

This the problem with this country. People will find some way to throw the racism card no matter what you do. I'd like to think that we had gotten past all that. Even though most of us had absolutely nothing to do with slavery and many of us have relatives that fought and died to abolish it we still get persecuted for the color of our skin. It is my personal opinion that whites are persecuted far more than any other race, color, or creed in this country because it's easy to do it and to get away with it. If whites respond in any way they get labeled as being a racist. So as a white you just have to sit back and take whatever is thrown at you or you will end up with that label. It's BS and completely unfair.

[TJMAC77SP]

Could it be that a young white man who can't swim sees the ad and is motivated by what he sees? Which is someone being given the tools and opportunity to overcome a fear and/or lack of a taught skill?

Hmmmm something to ponder. Damn knuckleheads.

[Unregistered]

This the problem with this country. People will find some way to throw the racism card no matter what you do. I'd like to think that we had gotten past all that. Even though most of us had absolutely nothing to do with slavery and many of us have relatives that fought and died to abolish it we still get persecuted for the color of our skin. It is my personal opinion that whites are persecuted far more than any other race, color, or creed in this country because it's easy to do it and to get away with it. If whites respond in any way they get labeled as being a racist. So as a white you just have to sit back and take whatever is thrown at you or you will end up with that label. It's BS and completely unfair.

Ummm, yeah, whomever you are, you make an ignorant argument. To say that whites are persecuted more than any other race in this country is complete ignorance. Educate yourself before you comment again, olease.

[THELADYKT]

Unfortunately no matter what people do or say....there is always going to be somebody who finds something racist or sexist about it. You can't please everyone and you never will.

[Unregistered]

That Was A Powerful And Excellent Recruitment Ad And It Was Not Racist. I Do Think Its Target Audience Is African Americans. In My Opinion It Will Get More African Americans To Join The Marine Corp. Btw I'm An African American Myself

[Unregistered]

That is so stupid. I am a white guy that can't dance. How often have we heard that stereotype?

[Unregistered]

Why do you assume the man cannot swim? Maybe he is afraid of heights like I am? I know how to swim. I have a n acute fear of heights. Diving off of diving boards, unless is the board is right above the water, scares me so I don't do it. Maybe that is challenge in the video?

Is this video racist? NO!!!

[THELADYKT]

Why do you assume the man cannot swim? Maybe he is afraid of heights like I am? I know how to swim. I have a n acute fear of heights. Diving off of diving boards, unless is the board is right above the water, scares me so I don't do it. Maybe that is challenge in the video?

Is this video racist? NO!!!

Because the orignial post says he can't swim

“I faced one of the toughest challenges of my life right here,” the narrator says. “I couldn’t swim.”

[1Knight]

The ad isn't racist. I'm a Black Marine,it it shows what the Marine Corps has been doing with recruits for years. Overcoming your fears so you can hook and jab with One Of The Best!
Even at the end it shows the Marine joining his Brothers, who I might add are cammied up in different colors. It doesn't matter what you are. We take everybody!

Do know I've been swimming since I was 5!

[Unregistered]

Heck no the ad is not racist! It's a testament to overcoming ones fears! I would be proud to meet any individual that accomplished this feat! I am so proud of all our armed forces for all they/you do to keep us out of harms way! I can't tell you how much my family and I appreciate each and every one of you!

[Cajun's Girl]

Damn I never knew there was a stereotype about blacks and swimming...so if not for the article I wouldn't been soooo confused...well I still am. Besides, there is nothing putting the man down...so what's the big stink? Shoot there's so many other things that are more "racist" than this marine commercial...

[Unregistered]

Hey, black people. We know you can’t swim. That’s okay! We’ll teach you how, and then let you ride in a cool boat, if you just sign up for the Marines now. Okay?’ ” ???????

How about, " Hey anyone who may be seeing this ad, if you are concerned about your swimming ability, we can help you overcome it. In this REAL case, we did." It is an attempt to reach an audience who may be reluctant to try. How do we convince people to do anything. We send a resounding message, "YOU can do it." Thats all this is.

I am sick and tired of the society of victims we are building. Just because you can read into something does not mean that was the intent. This is NOT a racist ad nor does it cross the threshold of even being interpreted as offensive. You want to be offended watch some stand up comedy acts sometime. They are riddled with racist remarks and inuendo. This is a shot by the democrats to trip up the military in an attempt to make Barrack Obama look more electable. I say to the offended, GET REAL. This discussion is a waste.

[Unregistered]

So... what re the facts? What percentage by race can not swim when they join?

[JimTexas]

This is ridiculous. Another attempt by black people to find fault when there is no fault to be found. Plain and simple: this is the TRUE story of a man's journey in overcoming his fears. That's it. I know it may be hard to grasp, but sometimes there isn't any racial motivation or stereotyping in certain situations. Nonetheless, I know that my typed words here won't have any effect on the millions of black people who have a permanent, never-ending chip on their shoulders. Very, very sad.

[Unregistered]

Racist, I think not, accurate maybe. I was an African American Marine who by the way could swim before I went to boot camp and when I went through basic training I did observe that many African American or minority recruits did not know how to swim compared to Caucasian recruits. Many factors contribute to why it seems more minorities can not swim. One of which is in neighborhoods in the inner city do not have pool facilities, they are no where to be found. In the schools those types of programs cost money to run and maintain. In the inner city where I grew up I remember sharing text books at times with other classmates, do you think my school had money for a pool or if they already had a pool it had been unused for years because the school could not afford to maintain it on their budget.

Most recruiters in large cities recruit largely in the inner city high schools. Even at the community colleges in the inner city there are recruiters all over the place, but on the Penn State campus where I attended classes for almost two years I may have saw a hand full. Maybe the reason it seems more minorities do not know how to swim is because they are recruited more so from the inner city where a pool or beach are not available to them? Just a thought.

I had family that lived in nicer areas of the city and in the summer would spend time at their neighborhood pool or go to the beach. That is how I learned how to swim. Not everybody has access to a pool or beach. This commercial will inspire anybody that has a fear or obstacle to push past it and achieve not just becoming a Marine but many things in life! I had a small fear of heights before I went to boot camp but that did not stop me from jumping off of the repeal tower!

Former Sergeant, USMC

[LILLEO1823]

What a joke! You can try as hard as you can and perceive everyone to be racist. If they showed a white Marine jumping into the pool. Someone would say, "That is racist! What? You decide to show a white man instead of a black man because blacks can't swim?!"

[Unregistered]

Ummm, yeah, whomever you are, you make an ignorant argument. To say that whites are persecuted more than any other race in this country is complete ignorance. Educate yourself before you comment again, olease.

You are right, lesser whites are persecuted because lesser of them do stupid things.

[Sgt Grandpa]

This is ridiculous. Another attempt by black people to find fault when there is no fault to be found. Plain and simple: this is the TRUE story of a man's journey in overcoming his fears. That's it. I know it may be hard to grasp, but sometimes there isn't any racial motivation or stereotyping in certain situations. Nonetheless, I know that my typed words here won't have any effect on the millions of black people who have a permanent, never-ending chip on their shoulders. Very, very sad.

As a white guy I find your comments somewhat off color (intended pun). First, nobody ever said it was a American African, or Black or Hispanic or Asian or Caucasian who complained. At least not in the initial post. If there is proof to this, please post here. Also goes for the "millions" comment as this would also appear to be stereo-typing. Not trying to paint you as a hypocrit, just saying...
I agree about the part concerning the journey, and it applies to everyone regardless of skin tone or whether they stand or squat to urinate. As for what you type not making a difference; well even if one person who would argue that it this ad was racist changes his/her mind by what we write here, then we did make a difference.

[Unregistered]

1. I am white.
2. When I went to boot camp, I couldn't swim.
3. When I graduated boot camp, I could swim. The Marine Corps taught me how.

There are people of all races who can't swim. What's next? If we show a white Marine calling cadence are we saying that we can teach white people--who stereotypically don't have any rythym--that we will promise them rythym as long as they sign up right now because we're "so" desperate to enlist people. I believe the biggest hinderance to erasing racism in this country comes from those who continue to highlight race as an issue, whether it be with a blogger who comments on some commercial and the media who pays the blogger any attention, or the military who, in some vain attempt to highlight their racial sensitivities, hold race heritiage months with stereotypical events that point their fingers at a group of people and say "look at them, they're different."

[Sgt Grandpa]

I believe the biggest hinderance to erasing racism in this country comes from those who continue to highlight race as an issue, whether it be with a blogger who comments on some commercial and the media who pays the blogger any attention, or the military who, in some vain attempt to highlight their racial sensitivities, hold race heritiage months with stereotypical events that point their fingers at a group of people and say "look at them, they're different."

Hmm, interesting thought... EXCEPT... the heritage months are not designed by the military. So with that said let me say I agree to an extent. I do believe that NO heritage should ever be forgotten, be it Native Americans, Latino, Hispanic, Black, White, Asian, European, etc. but I do also believe that in order to help eliminate racism, lets start with getting race and sex off the applications from employment. I can actually remember when I was put in for an award (Army Active Duty), I had to fill out a form that asked what sex I was, race I claimed... just so that they could "track" awards for EEO. Now how insane is that, I told them that by asking these questions it was actually detrimental to the service, but hey I was a "trouble maker" anyway so I was ignored. No biggie.

[SSG Preston/ Army]

The AD is fine, I'll ask, what about "WHITE MEN CAN'T JUMP" we heard nothing about that racist remarked, as a matter of fact it was all right.

[OLD SCHOOL]

How on earth is this ad racist? Last time I checked, lots of people have issues with learning to swim. This is the story of one person who over came his own problem, with learning to swim. All of the lets look for something bad, need to get a life.

[Unregistered]

After reading the article, I gathered eight of my co-workers who are none military and who are all different ethnic back grounds and asked them to watch the video. After the video I asked there thoughts about the video and if they found it to be racial. None of the eight volunteers found the video to be racial. In fact, two of my co-workers asked me “why did you ask us if we found it to be racial?” In my life time, I’ve learned through life experiences, in order for a person(s) to make a comment such as this. That they are racial in one way or another.


Semper Fi

[Unregistered]

What moron thinks this is racist?

[Unregistered]

how the hell is this racist. whoever had the time to think this was racist need to do more work or something because you have too much time on your had. no everything thats black and white is not racist. when we fight we all americans

[Unregistered]

Of course it's racist, but for reasons that are so typical of the pervasive racism of American society that we notice it no more than the notice the air around us.

The ad is racist because it is designed to target a specific race. Here's how I watched it:

1. It's subject is a black Marine. OK, I guess Marines come in all colors, and that was just luck of the draw. Fine.

2. The parade scene focuses on some other black Marine. Huh?

3. Finally, the narrator in the closing scene uses a voice clearly intended to "sound black" (it's a shame there's so much black cultural segregation that this phrase is meaningful in America, but that's a different discussion).

So heck yeah, the ad is racist. The racist assumption is that blacks will respond better to a black man's appeal. And just like the swimming thing, just because it's true doesn't make it less racist.

I look forward to the day that we notice race no more than eye color, and that we stop writing different ads for different races. But in America, that ain't happening soon.

[Unregistered]

No.....many minorities and many non-minority soldiers cannot swim.

QUIT Labeling minority soldiers as inept by commenting on such no-sense!!!!

[Proud Mom]

I just watched the ad and I loved it.....when he came out of the water in full uniform it made me want to join the Marines!!....I love it!!! Maybe Im naive...but I found nothing at all racist about it and I lived down south and had never heard anything about swimming and race...the commercial is awesome!!

The young man overcame his fears and faced them. I hope they don't pull it from the TV.

[Unregistered]

As a white guy I find your comments somewhat off color (intended pun). First, nobody ever said it was a American African, or Black or Hispanic or Asian or Caucasian who complained. At least not in the initial post. If there is proof to this, please post here. Also goes for the "millions" comment as this would also appear to be stereo-typing. Not trying to paint you as a hypocrit, just saying...
I agree about the part concerning the journey, and it applies to everyone regardless of skin tone or whether they stand or squat to urinate. As for what you type not making a difference; well even if one person who would argue that it this ad was racist changes his/her mind by what we write here, then we did make a difference.

Sgt Grandpa, while I applaud the fact that you've chosen to reply to my comments, your point is not grounded in reality. Granted, I have no proof that the original quote was made by a black person, but we both live in the real world (at least I know I do). I'm not going to 'argue' with someone about the absence of proof when we both know good and well that a white person wouldn't take offense at the ad. You're clearly trying to defend both sides...bravo. But sometimes both sides don't deserve defense.

[Cajun's Girl]

Of course it's racist, but for reasons that are so typical of the pervasive racism of American society that we notice it no more than the notice the air around us.

The ad is racist because it is designed to target a specific race. Here's how I watched it:

1. It's subject is a black Marine. OK, I guess Marines come in all colors, and that was just luck of the draw. Fine.

2. The parade scene focuses on some other black Marine. Huh?

3. Finally, the narrator in the closing scene uses a voice clearly intended to "sound black" (it's a shame there's so much black cultural segregation that this phrase is meaningful in America, but that's a different discussion).

So heck yeah, the ad is racist. The racist assumption is that blacks will respond better to a black man's appeal. And just like the swimming thing, just because it's true doesn't make it less racist.

I look forward to the day that we notice race no more than eye color, and that we stop writing different ads for different races. But in America, that ain't happening soon.

Well if you READ into anything TOO deeply you can call ANYTHING RACIST! It's like looking at Star Trek TNG...saying that Geordi and saying that because he's black he has to play a guy with a visual disability...in essence you can pull a racist thought from anything.

When you make a BIG deal out of something so benign you only add fuel to the racist problems in America. You should deal with racist things/people like the KKK...or Neo Nazi's...racist acts that are obvious and unfair...this commercial is not meant to be racist...

[former Marine]

As a former Marine (and Ranger), this was true while I was in boot camp....because black guys didn't grow up with the opportunities to learn how to swim. as a white southern teenager, I was swimming by the time I was seven; the black Marines I went through boot camp had never - for the most part - had access to a swimming pool (segregation anyone?). It was also true that several white recruits had the same problem - all who finished boot camp - of any color - at least learned drownproofing. Finally, at my first billet with the lst Marine Division, my "bunkie" happened to be black...and a lifeguard. No this ad ain't racist...it's just true, due to the conditions I outlined above.

[Unregistered]

WOW! When I saw this video and read this Marines story I was overcome with such a sense of pride for this Marine and in fact for the Marines in general. It was extremly motivating and I had my son watch it. Now to read that someone somewhere thinks it is a racist ad makes no sense to me. That was the furthest thing from my mind when I watched it. I'm sure this Marine whose story this is and it his voice narrating the ad didn't feel it was racist. By someone saying this is racist I hope it won't take away this Marines pride and sense of accomplishment. I think this ad is awesome and hope that this negative web someone is spinning doesn't get in the way of it encouraging someone else to overcome and not quit whateve it may be.

[From the CAV]

All those people claiming racism need to grow a set or two sign up join and then complain unitl the cows come home unitl then then STICK IT!

[BKAA4]

I felt the entire theme of the commercial was to suggest that overcoming adversity and being a Marine is a step in the same direction.
I thought the commercial touched upon a documented statistic, and did so by offering a mutual solution. If, the commercial does not touch upon something that may be missing, or does not stir something positive within the viewer; than the commercial probably has little meaning to that person. As such, a search to rationalize the commercial finds other meanings, which has nothing to do with being a Marine.
Frankly, I do not think the Marines should give a shit about what someone, who they do not want, may think. The Marines have a job to do, and in my opinion, a much more noble one.
In my final opinion, I have come to the perception that a racist is always the first to find racism. I do not suggest racism does not still exist, just an opinion of how much is real.

[Unregistered]

The Ad is absolutely not racist! It shows that a particular man faced his fears, conquered them, and became not only a Marine, but a Man.

[mas2178]

The art of the fabricated controversy.

Gawker.com is a left-wing site that has nothing to say about Marines other than tear them down.

The commercial was awesome, it's too bad the Marine Corps Times has become so pathetically leftist.

[Unregistered]

Of course it's racist, but for reasons that are so typical of the pervasive racism of American society that we notice it no more than the notice the air around us.

The ad is racist because it is designed to target a specific race. Here's how I watched it:

1. It's subject is a black Marine. OK, I guess Marines come in all colors, and that was just luck of the draw. Fine.

2. The parade scene focuses on some other black Marine. Huh?

3. Finally, the narrator in the closing scene uses a voice clearly intended to "sound black" (it's a shame there's so much black cultural segregation that this phrase is meaningful in America, but that's a different discussion).

So heck yeah, the ad is racist. The racist assumption is that blacks will respond better to a black man's appeal. And just like the swimming thing, just because it's true doesn't make it less racist.

I look forward to the day that we notice race no more than eye color, and that we stop writing different ads for different races. But in America, that ain't happening soon.

First of all,
This is NOT a racist commercial. If you listen to the narrator, the voice is of a black man, supposedly of the man you are seeing on screen. As we know with Hollywood, this may not be true, but this is the intent of the commercial. Secondly, there is a large section of African-Americans that do not know how to swim because of the location in which they grew up. If you grow up in an poverty strickened-urban area, year round public swimming pools are not plentiful. The USA Today recently ran an article concerning a member of the U.S. Olympic Swim team helping lead a campaign along with a foundation to teach minority children to swim. Why? Because a young black teen drowned when he went swimming and was too ashamed to tell others he couldn't swim and drowned. In African-American society in some families, swimming is not encouraged because of a long held family fear of drowning. Someone in the family either drowned or witnessed a drowning and thus passed the belief of staying away from the water to the next generation. A huge problem in the African-American society just as routine medical treatment is a concern. How do I know this is a problem, I am an African American man that grew up on swimming sparingly and just know enough not to drown. I congratulate the Marines on tackling the issue head on and delivering a positive message to young black males that you can overcome anything with hard work and determination. I am not a former Marine either. I was an Air Force officer. This is why the Marines are more respected than any other service. They maybe the brunt of many jokes but I don't know anyone who doesn't RESPECT what they bring to the table.

[Unregistered]

Heck No !!!!! Its Awesome.......if They Did A White Guy That Was Afraid Of The Tower, Would That Be Rascist?? I Dont Think So.....i Think This Ad Will Be Very Successful In Recruiting Young Men And Women,,

[Unregistered]

Turns out the government has done a new study and discovered that 60 5 of black children can't swim.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24411271/

Blacks know among themselves that most of them can't swim. Oprah talked about it too.

[RM2SWUSNRETKIRBYTX]

It never amazes me that some people try to make somone who is a different race in a commerical as this being racist. it is completley absured. I am the father of a recon marine. when he reenlisted in 06 he had problems passing the recon swim test. oh yes he is bi racia meaning he is cajun, scottish, irsh and filipino. he had a hard time to get the 1st class swim time. so I told him get an old grizzlary gunny and have him work with you. he did that and he passed the 1st class swim test and passed the indoc with recon. his mos is 0621. the bottom line is that somebody will always try and make something negative about this commerical. if you look the small boat he is in and the otehr personnel. are recon marines. my son told me that all the marines got a kick out of the commerical. it motivates more recruites and active duty marines to go recon. so my final thoughts are that the person who says that commercial is racist is full of BS!

[SIZE="5"]SEMPER FI

father of a recon marine!

[Unregistered]

I thought it was an excellent commercial. He is not black or white, he is a Marine.

Some people need to find other things to do with their time than complain that this is a racist commercial. There are many races in the Marines. Why not have a commercial with a Marine of a different color.

[Unregistered]

if you think this ad is remotely racist you have no idea how modern culture and society is today, ..and your a fucking retart.

[MACK0811]

Racist? Heck no. Although, I was thinking "how totally lame" until the dude broke the surface of the ocean and got picked up by his boys; THAT was pretty sweet.

The whole "blacks can't swim" thing is more tired than a 55 year old man after running a PFT. I'm 100% Cracker and always had problems in the pool until I forced myself to go swim everyday.

Last thing, when will we start seeing battle-hardened NCOs in these commercials instead of those same old 8th & I Boots?

[Proud Mom]

Please abide by forum policies and refrain from using profanity.
Thank you. You made a good point...until the end of it.

[Hendo1]

I am a minority and also a prior Marine (ret). I don't think it's racist at all. In fact I think it's a plus for minorities. Spending four years in Recon there wasn't very many minorities in that MOS. So to advertise about minorities being in a SOC unit is "Freakin" outstanding.

[Unregistered]

This ad is not racist. The person or persons calling this ad racist should be investigated.

[Unregistered]

For the record, I think this is a dynamite commercial. It's very well produced and gets to the heart of the reality that military duty is often tough, demanding, and requires one to put aside personal fears to accomplish the missions at hand.

For me, the only thing racist are the selfish interests who which to claim racism in the ad. I am sick and fed up with agendists trying to turn everything into a racial issue. We have a sinister force in this nation at work and it is time for us to wise up and expose them and shame them. These race-mongers wallow in racism, and are committed to continuing racial divides because they obtain their power and influence from agitating racial tension. When the tensions ebb, they excel in creating tensions from thin air.

These people don't wish racism to end. So, they concoct racism from any issue they can warp to suit their selfish needs.

Those people are the only issue of controversy. The advertisement should run and the Marines should again be proud that as a military branch they continuously produce the finest military recruitment ads in America. I frankly wish the Air Force could capture the spirit and integrity of the Marine ads.

[commonsense101]

I saw the commercial for the first time last night and I didn't see any evidence of racism. In boot camp during swim qual 95% of those who couldn't swim were African-Americans. Previous post have already stated multiple reasons on why most (not all) African-Americans can't swim. Defense Department statistics show the number of young black enlistees has fallen by more than 58 percent since fiscal year 2000. I wonder if the commercial is trying to target that specific audience for that specific reason.(boston.com/news/nation/washington/articles/2007/10/07/military_sees_big_decline_in_enlistees/[/url]) Just because a specifc audience was targeted doesn't make it racist. Cosmetic commericals, magazines, AARP, and certain news networks all have a target audience. Who do you think is Revlon's and AARP's target audience? I love the commercial and hope it is not pulled.

[GUMBY777]

Whoever is complaining needs a life. As a black man, you would not believe how many black people I know that can't swim. However, that was not the point of the commercial. The point was overcoming fear and finding out what you are really capable of.

[Unregistered]

I sent the link for the video and the ad to quite a large diverse group of people asking for their opnion.
From the Senior Pastor of a very large 10,000 member church to active duty, to college kids to young yuppy singles to salaried management types.

It will be interesting to see who responds and what they say. The ad was powerful and had a great message. You can overcome and succeed.

[Unregistered]

The only racisim in this story is the suggestion that race is important to understanding this SM's story of personal courage.

[George Margetto]

Hell no. The only color in my Marine Corp is GREEN!!

[SGT6124]

Hell I am white and I am a swim qual 4....is that racist now? NO, but it is all based on perception, and close minded individuals maybe take it that way. It so rediculous to think this is racist, that is what our pitiful society is coming too...it's a very sad sight.

[Keith]

I am a retired Army Senior Noncom and I love it! I wish the Army had come up with idea first. :-) HOOAH!

[Troy Meyer]

Please stop using every issue as a racial excuse. There isn't anything racial about anything with the video. Whoever said it looks like racism needs to think about the message of the ad. Do you think that there are some other people black, white or other that are apprehensive of water activities, because THEY CAN'T SWIM? Not because they are BLACK! I am so sick of everything having to pass the racism meter before it can be deamed acceptible.

No, I'm a white guy so I can't understand what your grandfather's grandfather's grandfather experienced coming over in chains on a boat. But LET IT GO! How do you think you are going to move past that terrible time in American history if you keep bringing these things up.

Stop using racism as an excuse and live today like there is no tomorrow.

Troy Meyer (yes that is really my name)
Kansas City, Missouri

[Unregistered]

Well I sent out the video link and asked for opnions and I got my first one back. From a retired NCO.
He tends to be somewhat sarcastic but he makes some valid points.

"Thanks, just watched it. Well, a lot of inner-city kids don't have access
to pools and therefore never learn to swim, whether they're white or black
(or Italian or Polish or Puerto Rican or.......). I guess the Marines were
trying to show you can overcome some things you're not good at when you
become a Marine. Perhaps they targeted inner-city folks, maybe they didn't.
We've just gotten to the point where someone is going to get pissed off
about just about anything you say or do. I don't remember a huge outcry
when "White Men Can't Jump" came out. Maybe Spike Lee should make a movie
about an Olympic swimmer called "Black Men Can't Swim" or something. Better
yet, the Navy should have its own advertisement showing a bunch of white
guys on liberty in a night club all depressed about how that can't dance,
then after a few pitchers one of the "bar girls" grabs one by the hand and
pulls him onto the floor. (The Village People's "Macho Man" starts to play)
Then he exclaims how great the Navy is because he could never dance before
he joined! (In The Navy!) I know...... ridiculous. But so is the whole
damned argument. I guess the government needs to start the "Bureau of Warm
Fuzzies" and ensure there are no whites in Wonder Bread or Twinkie
commercials, no blacks in KFC ads or Asians doing laundry or rice
commercials. Either that or just disregard all the morons who like to play
the "race card" at every opportunity. And if Obama gets elected it's only
going to get worse. Not because he's black (well, only half black) but
because he's a Democrat, and will pander to every bleeding heart who feels
they haven't gotten what the government or anyone else they feel "owes"
them. Just remember those people who were on HUD at Spanish Gardens.....
couldn't come up with $6.00 a month for government subsidized housing, but
damn they could sure walk home from Circle K with beer and cigarettes! And
most of them were white! Sorry, I'll shut up about it now!

Final thought....... maybe the military should start giving a swimming test
as part of their entrance exams..... I wonder if anyone would say THAT was
racist? The same people? Ya Think? OK, then just skip the swimming
lessons the Navy gives and just load everyone on the boat and hope they have
the skills needed if and when they become necessary. Can't swim? Sorry, we
have the "Don't Ask, Don't Dog-Paddle" policy. Can't have it both ways!

I know...... all media and advertising must now use computer generated,
polka-dotted, androgynous figures who aren't allowed to actually say or do
anything so no one is offended."

[Unregistered]

Racist? I think some people need a reality check! Even if statistic demonstrated that African Americans had a lower swimming aptitude than other racial groups perhaps it is socio-economic access to facilities rather than anything inherent! Just because I'm a white Australian am I supposed to be able to surf or indeed swim. I empathise with this commercial because I remember having to attend "backward swimming class" at 0530 on many dark winter's mornings at HMAS CERBERUS in 1978, just because I could not swim underwater on my back across eight lanes of a 50 metre pool (supposedly to avoid burning oil!!!). Good ad - Ooh Ra!

[Unregistered]

You have got to be kidding when will it ever end!!! That is the most motivating commercial raise the hair on your back but those that are offended by the spectacular achievments of our warriors, men and women you have to pull the race card everytime. If a white person says something its racist if a black person says it its okay they are just words oh and who said that the first black presidential nominee that is using the coat tails of his white mother and grandmother that gave him the values to be the first Black presidential nominee not BIRACIAL but the first blackman that has traveled all 60 states.

Also I am not racist I am married to a wonderful black woman and have two the the greatest girls in the world that will achieve greatnessthrough hard work and not the oh yow as me I need federal assistance to pay for school.....

Semper FI
Marine

[03Civilian]

Only a NON-Marine would find this offensive.

[Unregistered]

Absolutley not racist!

[GRANTWDBY]

The blogger is probably a paid operative of the Democrat party. Their strategy is to Balkanize the electorate. If they can peel off just a few voters who might otherwise vote MARINE CORPS! they'll count it a success and melt back into the proletariat, following Comrade Lenin's orders.
Racist? Is there a black man in the video? Weren't they all Marines?
Despicable, really. Let us take a moment to remember what Dr. Samuel Johnson, the 18th-century British genius, said: "Freedom of the press, yes, but also feedom of the cudgel."

[18A]

Let's face it, city kids both white and black, have a heck of a time with land nav, rifle qual, and a host of other skills and field craft.

But how come people laugh like hell when comedians joke about stereotypes , but then can't discuss them logically? and factually? This is a true story, but the PC police find a way to pitch it as something else.

[HHT311]

:eek: You've got to be kidding me !
What is racist about it ? I sure didn't see anything.
:cool: I though that it was a pretty COOL ad.:cool:
Especially when he came up in the ocean in his battle gear.

It would take a real MORON to think this ad. is racist.

BTW: As some others said. All I saw was a man who got some really great training and became a Marine.

Racist ? Think it has anything to do with the Camo face paint he was wearing ?

[Unregistered]

Racist??? ARE YOU KIDDING ME?? SOME PEOPLE NEED TO GET A LIFE AND GET OVER THIS RACIST GARBAGE, NOT EVERYTHING IN LIFE IS ABOUT RACE. WAKE UP PEOPLE GET OUT AND DO SOMETHING GOOD FOR YOUR COUNTRY AND STOP THINKING THAT EVERYTHING OR EVERYONE IS RACIST, WHAT IS THE DIFFERANCE IF HE WAS BLACK, WHITE YELLOW,PURPLE OR WHATEVER COLOR YOU CHOOSE. DO SOMETHING WITH YOURSELF AND STOP FEEDING THIS RACIST GARBAGE TO TO EVERYONE...

[Unregistered]

I was there at Parris Island in 1977 and our platoon was made up of 36 whites and 36 blacks. Swim qual day was very frightening. I was taught how to swim at basic training and passed. Out of the 36 blacks, I think 2 passed. So, now I can be a racist too. The ad is great...it tells people that you can overcome many things with the right training, motivation, and mind set.

[Unregistered]

I did not see this as racist. The ad would work as well no matter the color of the person's skin. The story did not come from the imagination of an ad agency, rather tells a true story of a Marine. The Marine Corps is transforming for all.

[nmbernhardt@yahoo.com]

Racist....NO WAY!!!! When I went to Boot Camp,I did not know how to swim,either!

[TJMAC77SP]

Only a NON-Marine would find this offensive.

Well, I would say that only someone with another agenda would find it offensive.

[Unregistered]

No, it's not racist. How can it be racist when it was submitted by a black man who wanted the world to know what the Marines did for him? For him, swimming was just the tip of the iceberg on what he got from his experiences and training in the service. I think it's a pretty cool commercial.

[TAIPAN]

There Is No Way That This Ad Is Racist. I Thought It Was A Good Ad For The Marines. Guess You Beter Take Blacks Out Of All Ads.

[Unregistered]

This could only be construed as racism by someone looking to be offended. A true story about a man overcoming a limitation. Maybe a little corny with a bit too much time spent on the pool shots. More combat geared up fast boating right into a firefight would have been better; more action. The only racism in the add is in the mind of the accusers; they must have racist stereotypes on the brain. The ad is the true story of one man who could not swim before entering the Marine Corps.

[31 Year Marine]

Racist?
Are you kidding me? It's a great ad about a challenge and about a youngman who accepted that challenge.
I see a Marine NOT a color.

[Rudy Eberhardt]

Hopefully the Corps will not buckle to these so called PC police. It's a fact of life that recruits have "fears" that are overcome during boot camp.
The Confidence Course at PI was a daunting site to me - especially the A-frame(fear of heights). I was encouraged to overcome my fear with the confidence that I could accomplish my goals. Truth be told I really looked forward to going out to the Confidence Course and had dare I say FUN during Boot Camp !!!!!!!!!!

[Unregistered]

I beleive the Marine Times can post better articles. This paper is getting more and more like the Enquirer.

[sweetvanity]

i finally got a chance to watch the video at home last night... the school where i work blocks basically all streaming videos. since it is a personal story, contributed by the marine, himself, i dont' particularly see how someone could say it is racist... unless the man himself is to be considered racist against his own ppl for promoting stereotypes... *sigh*

[Unregistered]

The ad is not racist. As a veteran of 20 years of service in the Navy, and as a prior recruiter myself, I can state definitively that the majority of african-american applicants that join the Navy cannot swim. This is not racism, it is fact. People need to get over it. When I attended recruit training in 1988, my company was about 1/3 african american (about 30), and fewer than 10 of them could swim at all when they got to boot camp.

[USMC2141DAD]

As A Former Marine And A Father And Grandfather Of Marines, Every Word In This Ad Speaks The Truth.i Didn't See One Racialthiing In It

Semper Fi, Dad

[Unregistered]

No it's not racist...unless you want it to be. I'm so tired of everybody tip toeing around and trying to make everything "politically correct". If you want to see a slant to the commercial towards racism than your going to see it. I thought it was well done and was looking at the content, not the "hidden" meaning.

[NavyChop2]

I echo a few other reader comments - why does everything have to be racist? Yes, it does directly address a STEREOTYPE that African-Americans can't swim, but the bigger story here is that the commercial embodies everything unique to serving in the US armed forces - attend boot camp where you undergo various challenging obstacles and training evolutions designed to break you down as an individual then raise you back up as a member of a team, reinforced by developing your self-confidence and personal courage. I say HOORAH for the Marines to sponsor such a great commercial that's appealing to a whole new generation of kids who lack self-esteem and long to be an accepted member of a proud organization - beats joining a gang.

[Unregistered]

I don't see this ad as racist at all. I think the problem is that people are looking for things that they want to make into a racist issue. This "black man" was the example in this commercial. It just so happened that this "black man" couldn't swim.....just like there are many "white men" who can't swim. If the ad had been a white man who couldn't swim, would that have been reverse racism of some sort? I think not. Why can't we just let go of perceptions of racism, when they are clearly not. I am the last person who would ever be racist and am not knit picking every aspect in life in order to find something that could be perceived as racist on a stretch because it would fit into my daily life so much better.

[Tony]

Growing up in Louisiana in an area where swimming pools were not common place I can understand how young African American men and women do not know how to swim-I was one of them. Not racist at all. In fact, a good recruiting tool.

[wesauls]

I'm sick and tired of people seeing racism behind every rock. I was just like the SSgt when I went to boot camp; I was scared to death but I knew the DI's wouldn't let me drown. That was over 30 years ago and I left Parris Island not knowing how to swim because they didn't devote as much time teaching us to swim then. Now, every recruit has to swim before they can graduate; that is something positive. I applaud this ad and I wish people would see it as it is intended, a positive statement.

EXHAT

[Unregistered]

How in the world could anyone see this as racist? The theme is about a young man overcoming his fears and accepting the challenge. There's some folks out there that have an agenda and are too sensitive and are very quick to place the race card. Retired US Army First SDergeant

[TEXEX88]

As a retired Army servicemember, former HS swimmer, and African American, I can say better than most who've posted that this video speaks on two levels.

The first is the overall theme of overcoming your fears - the 'jumping in' and 'facing your fears' analogies are classic motivational themes used by drill sergeants/instructors everywhere (I commanded an OSUT Engineer Company in FT Leonard Wood, so I know the script). Definitely not racist.

The second level is the REALITY that (from my perspective), in whatever population of African Americans I happen to be with, I'm the rarity in that I can swim (or choose to swim). I don't mean get in the water and make it to the other side; I'm talking about swimming hundreds of yards at a time. In the 38 years since I learned to swim as an 11-year old (public pool in Baltimore, MD), I'm almost always the only black person in the pool (and many times the best swimmer). Cities, small towns, doesn't matter. You can argue the stereotype all you want - I know because I was there (and will gamble that my sampling of this is more extensive than most of the other posters).

Some of the reasons why I'm all alone are:
a) lack of exposure (so many things to do that swimming just isn't in the top 10),
b) the impact of chlorine on dark skin (I can't simply swim, do a quick rinse, and go to work) and
c) hair (shaved my head, but not an option for African American women).

For the city kids, if you close the rec centers & swim pools for fiscal reasons (which many communities pressed for funds are doing), where will they learn? There are many other reasons (some specific only to African Americans, others apply to kids across the board). The net effect is that when I go to do my 1-mile swim, I'm almost always the only one that looks like me in the pool.

I even experienced the exact even depicted as part of my swimming training at the US Military Academy. Of my class (1981), we brought in 88 African Americans, and of the four categories of swimmers we had (beginner, lower intermediate, upper intermediate, and advance) only two of us made it to the advance level, while the beginner classes were majority African American. Our classes included both the 10m platform jump (fatigues, boots - jump in and swim to the other side), and the 3m wet carry drill (fatigues, dummy M-16, dummy pack, blindfolded, and tied to a rope - you had to swim to the surface, remove the blindfold, and swim to the other side). Not easy to do if you can't float.

I'll end this with another story - years ago while attending the NJ Boys State I competed for my county on the swim team. We were at the Rider College pool, and I gave what I thought was a disappointing performance in the Butterfly (I could do better, but didn't). When I stopped, I heard cheering from the several hundred Boy State attendees at the pool. I asked the official what was happening - he (a white male headed for the Naval Academy later that summer) told me they were cheering because "they never saw a black person swim before."

I only wish that the guy came out of the water as a ranger or special ops (professional jealousy).

[Unregistered]

It doesn't matter what race is depicted; the man is a Marine whether he is black, white, Asian or whatever!
I am willing to bet that 99.9% of black Americans seeing this have a great amount of pride for their country. It's the white people having some kind of "guilt complex" that have a problem with it.
People should not concentrate on race. The color of the man on the diving board is irrelevant.
By the way, I'm in the Army and I have the upmost respect for the Marine Corps.

[USAF Long]

I don't feel it's racist. It shows a Marine's story, he was afraid but determined. He put his mind to it and jumped in to face his fear. The part is true, if you quit something so trivial as learning how to swim, you will have the mindset that it's ok to just give up when you face challenges.

I think people look at stereotypes and say "oh African American's can't swim" and this ad has an African American saying he didn't know how to swim. They think the ad was geared toward exploiting that stereotype. I think that people need to quit being so shallow and look at the big picture, it's a motivational story that inspires someone to believe the Marine Corps will give you the strength to face and overcome your fears, and teach you to never give up. That is the big picture that whoever criticized this ad failed to see.

Oh and on a joking note, it's not about the color of your skin, white, black, brown, purple, yellow... my dad told me all Marines start out green.

[shipmate]

Absolutely not. Look at the facts, many minorities grow up in inner cities and the only water may be a community pool. They never learn to swim from childhood so naturally they are afraid in boot camp. It can all be avoided by making that a requirement BEFORE they are enlisted, thus saving the taxpayers even more money.

[Unregistered]

This is in NO WAY racist. Give me a break.

[Unregistered]

That is a bunch of @$@%. This is not racist. It is about someone over coming a fear. What has the world come to. I have to say way to go Marine Corps!! Great Ad

[O. Walker]

I'd really like to know which idiot would even think of this to be racist. There are fears in almost everything we do for the first time. Fear of driving, swimming, shooting, sky-diving, you name it...
This guy, as many others have done, faced his fear and over came it; this fear was inevitable to face, if he wanted to become a Marine, or if anyone wants to become a Marine. No exceptions.
Some people just need to get a life.

[Unregistered]

This isn't racist at all. WTF is wrong with this people putting out the race card?

[Unregistered]

For the love of God! This is ridiculous. I am black and I don't see what the big deal is. If they would have shown a platoon of black people who couldnt swim and a platoon of whites who could THAT would be racist. This is just a waste of time.

[Pierce Madison]

It may not be racist, but it does paint everyone with a broad brush. I'm a minority and I can swim and shoot. I passed the swim test with no problem and qualified marksman. Over the course of a 21 year career, I continued to pass each swim test and improved to Expert 4th award, Pistol 6th award. It can be done. During my tours as both a Drill Instructor/ Senior Drill Instructor at Parris Island and a Platoon Sergeant at OCS, I encountered people from all races who struggled with swimming and land navigation. If you weren't exposed to either in your early stages of life, then you didn't fair well. If you participated in high school sports or were a boy scout, then your chances of suceeding improved dramatically. Believe it or not, some inner city kids are exposed to a well rounded lifestyle. They go on to become "outstanding" Marines with very successful careers. If it starts with encouragment on the 10 m platform or the rapelling tower....so be it. Better for them and the Corps.

Semper Fi
P. Madison
MSgt/ USMC Ret.

[Unregistered]

First of all- this is an AWESOME campaign ad. It will inspire individuals of all races and both genders to overcome their fears and join the best there is: The USMC! (Being a Marine myself, I tend to be a bit biased! No offense....) To not get chill bumps and a tear in your eye as a result of the positive message this ad sends to young citizens everywhere.... kind of means you're possibly lacking a pulse. It's actually embarrassing (on so many different levels) that race was brought up as an issue with this wonderful advertisement... but such is life in the Land of the Free.

Perhaps race wouldn't be highlighted here if the USMC balanced its commercials out by using a black Marine as the main character in some of its "regular" campaign ads; i.e., an ad that doesn't highlight deficiencies of any group. You can turn on the television at any time of the day on any channel besides BET and watch 5-6 non-military commercials without seeing a single black person.... try it some day. And if you do see a black person, it's that one "token" black person sprinkled into the ad. I think that if we mix things up a little more in our society, we could possibly tone down the sensitivity levels as far as race and gender are concerned. But you know, you'll never please everyone. Because I'm sure there's someone out there right now saying, "Speaking of BET, if white people had WET, everyone would have a fit!" In my opinion, if you really think about it, and really tune into your television for a couple of hours one day- WET IS, in fact, every other channel besides BET. Not to point fingers or get anyone's feathers all ruffled, just pointing out the truth of the matter. Maybe most don't realize it- but you won't unless you pay attention. Yes, we all have better things to do... but don't comment on racial issues unless you actually do "pay attention."

Now this is not to say that our society has not made efforts to move to more of a melting pot society in which attempts are made so that everyone feels comfortable... we just have a ways to go... Nonetheless, I love my country and still stand proud to serve.

As for the below quote from a fellow Unregistered User, my response is: Are you serious?? " Whites are persecuted far more than any other race, color, or creed in this country"? Are you sure? Sounds like somebody needs to get out more, think outside the box, and dig a little deeper to realize that this is plainly not true. I respect your opinion; however, without getting into the weeds of things, I think it's time we open our eyes a little wider and think twice before we start shedding tears for the wrong reasons.

OORAH Marines- awesome job on that campaign ad.... made me want to go and take swimming lessons myself!

~Motivated Marine; race, gender, and rank: unimportant


This the problem with this country. People will find some way to throw the racism card no matter what you do. I'd like to think that we had gotten past all that. Even though most of us had absolutely nothing to do with slavery and many of us have relatives that fought and died to abolish it we still get persecuted for the color of our skin. It is my personal opinion that whites are persecuted far more than any other race, color, or creed in this country because it's easy to do it and to get away with it. If whites respond in any way they get labeled as being a racist. So as a white you just have to sit back and take whatever is thrown at you or you will end up with that label. It's BS and completely unfair.

[Unregistered]

Hell, no. I've stood on that platform, terrified out of my mind. The point of the ad is that the Marine Corps teaches you to control your fears so that you can overcome any obstacle. If we had a white Marine in the video, we'd get slammed for only advertising to white applicants. Believe me, there's a ton of poolees and recruits who have absolutely no idea how to swim, and they all leave recruit training with basic swimming skills. Whoever thinks that the Marine Corps is racist has never heard a drill instructor lecture that "there is no color in the Marines, there is only green. Light green or dark green - we're all Marines." Some people need to occupy their time with more worthwhile pastimes than criticizing Marine Corps ads for something they themselves know nothing about and most likely will never possess the testicular fortitude to try. Become a Marine or cower in fear.

[Unregistered]

As a Former Marine and current Soldier proudly serving in the Army I think that the person that is really bringing this SMEAR campaign against the Marines is a civilian who has never spent one day in the life of any member of our fine military. So the SSGT is a black man that was afraid of swimming, there is a story behind the message not racism behind it. I once was from a small farming town, moved to a larger city and was the POOR kid and decided since I wasnt going to be handed a college degree and would have to work for a living took that same leap. You know what, there are several avenues of racism that can be viewed from this.

I know that there are several individuals from every ethnical background that when something is printed in the media or even shown on TV that they will jump the racism bandwagon and try to take somebody to court to get some money to further their cause. But they dont seam to notice it just brings down their cause even more because it really angers some people and turns them against what the group might really be wanting to do. I am a white male who has served for nearly 26 years and there has been someone of every ethnical background serving with me somewhere and let me tell you MOST would think that this is a tradgedy for the military because it would prevent us from showing what we really do for a young individual to help him/her improve themselves and become better citizens and set aside the differences and make this country a much better place.

[Unregistered]

Some of the post suggest that many are un aware of the racisim that blacks and other minorites still face in this and other nations. With that being said the ad is not racist in any way.

[Unregistered]

I can't believe that we have people out there that have nothing better to do than start up a controversy where there isn't one. This hard charging marine gave his story as to how the marine corps changed his life and showed him how to overcome his fears and to never quit. Both of which relate to combat. I think that the racists individual in this whole scenaerio is the internet site and the author who wrote how it is a steroetype and that it is recists. They have it in thier mind this idiotic thought and tried to pawn it off on the marine corps. The comercial is one of the better recruiting comercials that I have seen and I pray that the corps stands by it and does not give in to these few simple mimnded individuals and continues to run it.

[Oldcorps]

Absolutely NOT. It tells the story of what the Marine Corps is all about. Taking raw, untried men and women and making them into Marines. It's not easy and it must be earned. All that young black man in the commercial proved he had what it takes to earn the title of "Marine". I don't know him and will probably never meet him, but he is my brother and buddy and can sit at my table anytime.

[Unregistered]

Not in the least!! This turkey (blogger)needs to get a life!

[Unregistered]

What's that I hear, it's the Rev. Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson megaphones on full volume calling the Marines racist and demand an apology and make a multi-million dollar donation to the NAACP. Can any thing be done just to send a clear message of dealing and overcoming one's fears without being touted as racist? If the perception that the ad is racist, then then do not view it. It was not intended for you, but for someone who is intelligent and can see beyond the skin color. But that will not happen, beacuse of pressure from individuals who have nothing else betther to than trump up another march or protest while they can be working and being part of America without skin color, the ad will be removed and the news media will be all over this like white on rice. And yes, certain Americans are getting a free ride because of mandated quotas , not performance. Caucasian Americans as a whole are between a rock and Al Sharpton, because the moment you say something that is not politically correct or question a persons position or lack of real world performance of a different color, you are labeled a racist. In my opinion it's a good commercial and the only colors that should be seen thru this are Red,Blue, and White.

[Unregistered]

I know for a fact the Marines, and its leadership should be ashame of themselves, doing this type of commercial for recruiting. They are all myths, to the fact that we have a lot of blacks that lead and have led Marines, Soldiers, Airman, and Navy. There is no room now for this kind of stuff, and for it to come from a military organization this time in our lives is degrading to the least. Fix the problem now Marines

[Unregistered]

Ummm, yeah, whomever you are, you make an ignorant argument. To say that whites are persecuted more than any other race in this country is complete ignorance. Educate yourself before you comment again, olease.

__________________________________________________ __
This is true. As a 25 year old white man I get it sometimes. I was raised in Oakland and I cant tell you how many times I have been called a White Boy or a cracker. To me thats racist, but if I was to respond I would be the one getting it thrown in my face even though Im the one being called White Boy or carcker.

[Unregistered]

I know for a fact the Marines, and its leadership should be ashame of themselves, doing this type of commercial for recruiting. They are all myths, to the fact that we have a lot of blacks that lead and have led Marines, Soldiers, Airman, and Navy. There is no room now for this kind of stuff, and for it to come from a military organization this time in our lives is degrading to the least. Fix the problem now Marines

__________________________________________________ _______________
Are you serious?!!! Get real, The marine corps is the BEST ran military organization in the WORLD. Its a freaking commercial in which the black staff sergeant agreed to tell his story. If he doesnt find it racist then why should you?

[CPL Ski]

Where does racism even come into play in this ad? Why would someone construe racism based on what the ad says or shows? By definition:


Main Entry:
rac·ism
Pronunciation:
\ˈrā-ˌsi-zəm also -ˌshi-\
Function:
noun
Date:
1933

1 : a belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race 2 : racial prejudice or discrimination
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/racist

No where in the ad does it imply that any race is better or worse than another. If anything, one could by a far stretch of the imagination say that the ad was stereotyping blacks. But I don't see that myself. Many people of many races cannot swim.

There is no racism issue here. The issue here is ignorance of what racism is. Too many times people interchange racism with stereotyping. People need to be more LEARNED and think before they open their mouth.

[Sgt Grandpa]

ok, so is it racism that Rev AL only has what is considered to be minorities with him when he makes a speech? I don't think I have ever seen him with a white during any of his press briefings. Am I wrwong and missed some, or am I correct thatit has never happened. If I am right, can I sue HIM for being racist and not including a white guy?


This is dripping with sarcasm... if you get riled over this, geta grip as it isn't supposed to be a political jab, just an observation as well as a demonstration of the definition of racism or the lack of understanding there of.

[Unregistered]

The Marines GET IT. They may take knocks for being meatheads, ruffians etc; but they sure do know how to hire the right ad agency! Their commercials are head and shoulders better than the other services. I got chills when I saw the subject ad for the first time, as I often do with USMC TV spots; my wife and I both roared "Bravo, Marines!" Their branding instincts are spot-on--even on something which is often an afterthought--the voiceover. ("They've been called leathernecks; they've been called devil dogs...."). To a slightly lesser extent the Navy also gets it; their VO (Keith David) is distinctive, and even when they go "bare-bones" (e.g. the Seal ad with the footprints on the sand / now you see 'em, now you don't), their ads deliver. As for the Army and the Air Force, not a single one of their ads comes to mind, even though they run frequently. It's always been a mystery why the Army and AF don't take a few pages from the Marines and Navy advertising playbook. Shoot, you've got "Green Beret," "Rangers," "Thunderbirds/Fighter Pilot" (and, to a lesser degree, "PJ" and "CCT") at your disposal. Use 'em!!! I've seen more inspirational stories on squared-away crew chiefs in Airman Magazine than I've ever seen on multi-million dollar AF ad campaigns....

[Unregistered]

Wow. I read most of the thread. The majority of folks on here do not view the ad as racist.
they view it as a man overcoming a frea and becoming more than he was. One of the Proud, The Few, The Mighty, The Marines.
The ad has a powerful message to todays youth. Persevere and you can overcome.

I'm so sorry that the "Black" Leadership in America hasn't had to serve in the military. Or live in Military base housing. In the service, yes there are still ignorant people just like any other walk of life. However, the majority of the military personnel view their world as Red White and Blue. Honor and respect.
I lived in base housing for years. On one side there was a black family with 4 kids, on the other a white family with 2 kids, right behind us several families of mixed race marriages.
We all had cookouts together, the kids all played together.

To me, the ad is fantastic and I salute the Marines for making it.

[Unregistered]

What has race got to do with overcoming fears and exceeding your own expectations? Race isn't the question here, neither is gender, or even age...it is a depiction of achieving and being better tomorrow than you were today.The USMC challenges anyone who is willing to accept the responsibility to push through barriers they never dreamed they could conquer. Race??? Yeah, we all become Marine Corps Green!!!

[social-catastrophy721]

__________________________________________________ __
This is true. As a 25 year old white man I get it sometimes. I was raised in Oakland and I cant tell you how many times I have been called a White Boy or a cracker. To me thats racist, but if I was to respond I would be the one getting it thrown in my face even though Im the one being called White Boy or carcker.

I agree entirely. white people are persecuted day in and day out for stupid things. minorities have their own television networks(BET), organizations(NAACP, hispanic fund, etc.), churches, black colleges, scholarships for blacks, hispanics, asains, jews, and the whole nine but nowhere do you find the government handing out money for the white man. and if a white man tried to start up a t.v. network for the entertainment of white people he would be racist, or if we had white only colleges they'd be racist. if i call them a name then im racist, but they can call me honky, cracker, redneck, whitey, etc. and it's nothing(bull shit). this commercial is not to discriminate against anyone, somebody just wanted to pull the race card so that they could get some attention and try to get the white man to feel bad for nothing. i dont feel bad for being white and i'm extremely proud of my race and heritage, but i guess that makes me racist, but jesse jackson can walk around all day screaming black pride and he's supported. get over yourselves and stop sucking up the welfare.

[Unregistered]

Ummm, yeah, whomever you are, you make an ignorant argument. To say that whites are persecuted more than any other race in this country is complete ignorance. Educate yourself before you comment again, olease.


And spell check before you tell others to educate themselves.

[Proud Mom]

This thread isn't asking you to make racist remarks. The premise of the thread is "Is the ad racist". Please keep disparaging remarks to yourselves. This has been a good thread so far with no rudeness and the last couple of posts have crossed that line. This is America. Not white America or black America. Your colors are red, white and blue.

[Sgt Grandpa]

This thread isn't asking you to make racist remarks. The premise of the thread is "Is the ad racist". Please keep disparaging remarks to yourselves. This has been a good thread so far with no rudeness and the last couple of posts have crossed that line. This is America. Not white America or black America. Your colors are red, white and blue.

Sorry PM, I was only trying to identify with the other posters definition and put it in perspective.

**slinks to corner**

[K.Hunter]

I saw that commercial. NICE. I didn't see it as being racist; but Racism is often more in the eyes of the beholder than it is in the actions of the one accused of being racist. Perceptions and beliefs based on the concept of race makes 'racism' one of the most subtly pervasive sins of modern times, and one of the most difficult to have a constructive dialogue about because racism tends to be a more a part of who people believe they are and who they are not, than is comfortable acknowledged.

Even if it was purposed to target "Black people", Racist was when "the Marine Corps had initially refused to accept any African Americans at all, until after 1942, when casualties in the Pacific mounted and pressure from civil rights groups intensified, blacks were finally allowed to sign on and serve, but were mostly assigned to non-combat jobs." http://www.pbs.org/thewar/at_war_democracy_african_american.htm Some say kind of like Civil War, and the reluctance to use Americans of African descent for numerous reasons. At some point in time the fallacy of race doesn't support the Truth of our shared reality.

I'm a multimedia fan and the video, for me reflects numerous aspect of my perception on things; but the one most evident is that,

We may have taken different routes, and overcome different challenges, to get to our current point of departure, but we are all in the same boat now.

[frank bradley]

No way this ad is racist. I'm white and I can't swim either but I don't let that stop me!!

[Unregistered]

I'm so sick and tired of seeing nothing turned into something by ignorant stupidity. This is not racist and has nothing to do with race other than the fact of life that a percentage of blacks have difficulties swimming for whatever reason, there are a LOT of peple who have difficulties swimming and they're not all black. This is about showing young men and women the potential of overcoming their personal difficulties with a little perseverance and determination - a REAL LIFE story of a young man who had difficulties that he overcame by his determination and the encouragement and assistance of the Marines he came to be associated with. It matters not that he's black or white any more than a male is depicted instad of a female in this ad. The story is not bound by race or gender as nearly every Marine that has ever been has had difficulties he/she overcame with his/her determination and assistance from his/her fellow Marines.
These far-too-many piss-ants that turn everything into a personal attack upon themselves to garner some publicity and additional benefits that they themselves have not EARNED but will rely on the "pity" of others because of their "woe is me, I've been picked on/discriminated against/wronged" position. If they would spend as much time and effort in working for and deserving what they seek instead of expecting it to be handed to them on a silver platter with an engraved invitation to sit back and do nothing while we hand them every stinking thing they ask for the world would be a far better place.
Grow up and be a PRODUCTIVE citizen and quit your whining.

[Unregistered]

Sometimes I can't deal with ALL the BS that comes out over nothing. I'm black man and a proud member of the air force. Racist ad? PLEASE! They are telling this man's story! nothing more nothing less. I'm so sick of hearing people cry. I'm sure if you look at every ad on tv you can find something that SOMEONE will percieve as racist. People need to get over themselves. WE ARE ALL in the same game and at times the rules are not fair depending on who you are. Racism IS alive and well, but we can't apply it to everything every chance we get. If you are seriously the victim of discrimination or racism then issues like this hurt your chances for real justice. I'm a man first and I dont need the "Al Sharpton's" of the world speaking for me or telling me what's right or wrong. Sometimes you have to pick up your head and say "HEY THAT'S A BUNCH OF RACIST BULLS#IT", this isn't one of those times

[Tired of Idiocy]

You have got to be kidding me!!!

An advertisement showing a young man afraid and unsure of something in his life takes the step to conquer his fear with the aid of Marine training and some idiots call it racist.

Thank God there are enough young men and women out there that don't listen to these idiots and are courageous enough to face their fears so THEY CAN provide the FREEDOM for the media and other dregs of society to come up with such stuff

[Unregistered]

AYMEN!!!!!!!!! to the previous post. We ought to tell it like it is. As a labeled "minority service member" , I never thought of my self as such, other than a service member who volunteered for patriotism and to better my life. I am grateful to the military for all the opportunities it has allowed and enabled me to do while in uniform. I never had a ticket to a free ride nor did I go looking for it. My accomplishmnets were all based on my performance, not skin color or ethnic background, or gender. Are there certain people that look for the free rides and ride them thru ought there carriers based on skin color and gender? you bet there are. I have zero f**cking respect for those individuals that throw the race card everytime promotion or opportunities are not given to them based on performance, and if not, they throw the race card. I see it from time to time where our senior enlisted have to advance a minority or certain gender becasuse of a quota and not performance. A great example of working your ass off and paying your dues thru real world performance is MCPON Campa of Mexican American background , he minces no words and tells his own khaki community to get off their ass and be leaders, at the same time bringing back old Navy traditions. Even now, I can see the khaki community respond to this leader and see him as such and not some minority that will make our Navy a kindler and gentler Navy. Leave the Marine Corps ad on, it will serve as an example of what the military can offer you, if you put in some old fashioned hard work and deication. Go Navy, Go Marine Corps !!!!!!one helluva of a team.

[Unregistered]

In The 70's I Pushed Boots At Great Lakes. The Blacks Couldn't Swim, The Whites Couldn't March And Hispanics Couldn't Speak English But They Were There Trying To Do Something About It Rather Than Whine.

[Unregistered]

Previous post. Good Point!!!!!!!!!!!

[Unregistered]

OMG!!! Come on people!! that is so stupid, before I read this article all the way through I watched the add. I did not see anything wrong with it at ALL!! I saw a young man taking on a fear and a challenge to overcome the ending of the commercial is a victory! Being an african American and the mother of a son who so wants to be a Marine so badly when he is old enough I would want him to see that commercial as a motivation of someone who overcame an obsticle to achieve a goal...not because the the young man is african- American. But as a Marine! Whether he was black, white, hispanic, Asian. Does it matter??? look at what the add is showing, somthing so positive. those who think it is racist, get over yourselves!! the key to the whole commercial is it's ok to face a fear and overcome it! And it does not hurt for my so to see an African-american marine in a commercial especially this one i saw it in a very motivational commercial.

[Unregistered]

This is ridiculous. Another attempt by black people to find fault when there is no fault to be found. Plain and simple: this is the TRUE story of a man's journey in overcoming his fears. That's it. I know it may be hard to grasp, but sometimes there isn't any racial motivation or stereotyping in certain situations. Nonetheless, I know that my typed words here won't have any effect on the millions of black people who have a permanent, never-ending chip on their shoulders. Very, very sad.

Wow-
"Another attempt by black people...." Well, "Jim from Texas" I think everyone on this posting site can tell you're one of the most ignorant individuals on this forum. I don't even want to know what terms you REALLY use behind closed doors.... It's oh so obvious. Now that's what's "very, very sad."

You're probably correct in saying that your typed words here won't have any effect on the "millions" of black people who have a permanent, never-ending chip on their shoulders." And hopefully it won't have any effect on the "millions" of white people like you (did I guess it right, "Jim from Texas?") who have a permanent, never-ending chip on their shoulders. So what's your point, exactly? Start by being honest with yourself.

[TJMAC77SP]

Ok, I think it is clear that the overwhelming opinion of posters feel there is no racist aspect to the USMC ‘swimming’ commercial. The people and organizations who raised the issue are obviously trying to ride the backs of a particular minority to further their agenda. Next…………………

[Unregistered]

I agree entirely. white people are persecuted day in and day out for stupid things. minorities have their own television networks(BET), organizations(NAACP, hispanic fund, etc.), churches, black colleges, scholarships for blacks, hispanics, asains, jews, and the whole nine but nowhere do you find the government handing out money for the white man. and if a white man tried to start up a t.v. network for the entertainment of white people he would be racist, or if we had white only colleges they'd be racist. if i call them a name then im racist, but they can call me honky, cracker, redneck, whitey, etc. and it's nothing(bull shit). this commercial is not to discriminate against anyone, somebody just wanted to pull the race card so that they could get some attention and try to get the white man to feel bad for nothing. i dont feel bad for being white and i'm extremely proud of my race and heritage, but i guess that makes me racist, but jesse jackson can walk around all day screaming black pride and he's supported. get over yourselves and stop sucking up the welfare.

This post was semi-intelligent until we get to the point where the true ignorance shines with "get over yourselves and stop sucking up the welfare." Bravo, Ignorant One! You just totally lost all credit for your entire post with that last line.
Yes, "minorities" have certain specific organizations geared towards uplifting its people- but do you not realize why? Open your eyes, buddy. Remove your head from your rear, and perhaps you'll see that when you look around, maybe these types of organizations are necessary. Without these types of organizations, what do you think our society would look like? As for BET- "oh wow, they get their own channel!" Blacks "get their own channel" because every OTHER channel is WET. Again, open your eyes, Smart One. Take 15 minutes and watch something other than National Geographic, the news, and BET, and you'll be able to count the number of black individuals you see in any 10-minute timeframe. Compare that number to the number of white people you see in that 10-minute timeframe. If YOU think it's equal, then okay, I stand corrected. But try it and see.... take note of the difference and maybe THEN you'll be able to figure out why there are black colleges and organizations established which- BY THE WAY- are open to EVERYONE. Before you get extra-ignorant and decide to cry about life being unfair because you're just a poor, sad white guy who means no harm, think about how you truly feel.... as I eluded to earlier- it's evident how you REALLY feel and that you're probably part of the problem we're discussing today.... "get over yourselves and stop sucking up the welfare." Good job, you non-racist American citizen. Good job....

[Capt H.]

As a former Air Force Capt (African American female as well), I don't consider this ad to be racist at all. Truth be told, I was 30 when I finally learned to swim! The opportunity was there, but I was more interested in journalism, basketball and leadership training. I don't think the swimming requirement is as much of a "weed out" requirement for military service as the Air Force Officer's Qualifying Test (AFOQT), but that's for another forum.

[Unregistered]

Instead of shutting down the conversation by yelling "racist!", how about asking why many Black Americans can't swim? Could we talk about where we live and who gets swimming lessons and who doesn't? Swimming skills are not racial. They are often socio-economic. But nobody wants to fix that problem.

[TJMAC77SP]

Ok I tried. !4 pages and we go on and on....................good luck.

[Unregistered]

All,

Too much time on our hands.....teach someone too swim

[CDT]

Why is everyone so sensitive?
This video is in no way racist, it is a fact in the African American community. African-American's non ability to swim is not because of genes or inability to swim. I'm a prior service enlisted and now on my way to becoming a future officer, while I was on active duty this topic usually came up, and I believe all this has to do with geographical locations and upbringing. I am Haitian-American and I use to be a lifeguard, from my observations black people from outside the US tend to swim just as good as any white person. At the age of 5 I was swimming in basins over 15ft deep, I was practically raised in the water. The problem is that theres is a lack of interest of swimming for most African-Americans, or the unavailability of swimming areas. In response to the General officer's comment, remember that it hasn't been 50 years since a lot of the things that were available to whites became truthfully available to blacks or non-whites in America, we are now playing catchup.

[Unregistered]

Absolutely not racist! I am PuertoRican-American, born and raised in Jersey City, NJ and also learned how to swim in USMC Parris Island in 1980.

[Unregistered]

Personally I feel that the ad is not racists. I found it quite encouraging and motivating because it was his own personal story. It is not like it was a made up scenario, it was a personal experience. How is that racists. It is so sad that people tend to find the worsts in everything. IThere are way more important issues going on in the world today, than to be worrying about if a Marine Corps commercial is racists.

[Unregistered]

Personally I feel that the ad is not racists. I found it quite encouraging and motivating because it was his own personal story. It is not like it was a made up scenario, it was a personal experience. How is that racists. It is so sad that people tend to find the worsts in everything. There are way more important issues going on in the world today, than to be worrying about if a Marine Corps commercial is racists.

All things are possible if you believe.

[Unregistered]

does not look racist. he looks just like a determined and disciplined young man. mother of a new soldier

[trey smith]

bravo Serro!

[Unregistered]

Ummm, yeah, whomever you are, you make an ignorant argument. To say that whites are persecuted more than any other race in this country is complete ignorance. Educate yourself before you comment again, olease.

educate yourself, Whites are constanlty having to apologize, You are clueless, and by the way it is in no way menat to be racist, It is true most blacks cannot swim!

[usaf1shirt]

I can't swim either, I wish I had his courage when it comes to the water. When will this country get over the race card? Let me guess...was it the ACLU that brought up this issue? If anyone is preventing progress toward racial/religious tolerance in the country, it's those do-gooders. Can't we all just get along? And our country is supposed to be the leaders of the free world in tolerance? Oh...BTW, I'm white...did it matter until now?

[Unregistered]

It is not racist. Black people should quit playing the 'race card'. You are the person of your actions, not your skin.

[HM2]

By no means is that ad racist. I'm in the Navy and can't swim! The ad is correct emphasizing the need to conquer that fear. It is scary to jump off that platform knowing you can’t swim. However, it works to instill trust in the people around you and builds your confidence. However, it is true that when recruits have to take the initial swim test, the majority of remedial swimmers are minorities. Myself included.


Video: http://www.militarytimes.com/multimedia/video/061208mc_marine_video_leap/


Staff Sergeant Thomas Hill's own experience is the story behind this newest recruiting ad yet some claim it's racist. What do you think?


Racist recruiting? Marine Corps ad draws fire

The Marine Corps’ newest recruiting commercial aimed at targeting minorities tackles a long-running and often-controversial debate involving black American youth: swimming ability.

Called “Leap,” the commercial shows a young black man standing at a high diving platform overlooking a swimming pool.

“I faced one of the toughest challenges of my life right here,” the narrator says. “I couldn’t swim.”

Encouraged by his drill instructor’s urging not to give up, the man goes for it.

“So I jumped in,” he says. “Unsure, apprehensive and scared out of my mind. But I came up a Marine.”

The man emerges not from a swimming pool, but from open water, in face paint and combat gear. A rubber boat filled with Marines zooms by and pulls the man inside.

The ad reflects the real-life story of Staff Sgt. Thomas Hill, a senior drill instructor at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., according to a Marine recruiting Web site, our.marines.com.

Hill volunteered to tell his story when he heard the Corps was looking for ideas for a new commercial, according to the site. “He wants others who approach life the way he did to understand what being a Marine can do for them.”

The popular blog Gawker.com, however, derided the ad as “subtle stereotyping.”

“The Marines send a simple, straightforward message: ‘Hey, black people. We know you can’t swim. That’s okay! We’ll teach you how, and then let you ride in a cool boat, if you just sign up for the Marines now. Okay?’ ”

In 1993, then-Commandant Gen. Carl E. Mundy Jr. launched a storm of controversy by telling an interviewer on “60 Minutes” that whites outperform blacks in objective military tests, including swimming.

“In the military skills, we find that the minority officers do not shoot as well as the non-minorities… They don’t swim as well. And when you give them a compass and send them across the terrain at night in a land navigation exercise, they don’t do as well at that sort of thing.”

More recently, a retired Army reserve officer running for the U.S. House of Representatives in 2006 was videoed at a Christian Coalition making similar comments: “I grew up in Alabama and I understand and I know this from my own experiences that blacks aren’t the best swimmers or may not even know how to swim.”

The comments cost Tramm Hudson his shot at winning the Republican nomination for Florida’s 13th District.


Article: http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/06/military_swim_061208w/

[mrlee]

What's racist about it? What difference does it make if it's a black Marine, a white Marine, or a green Marine? Hell, I'm white and that was ME 50 years ago. Some people see race in everything ! Turns me off !
Lionel Gladu, Cpl., USMC, Semper Fi !!!

[Army Vet]

I was a Staff Sgt in the Army. I am also Black. I can recall when we had to do drown proofing drills in the pool, using your BDU's as a floation device. I was amazed how many brother's and sista's that didn't know how to swim. The ads are not racist, they are the truth

[Unregistered]

Without "exposing" who I am.... I will say that I am a Marine.
Secondly, I know first-hand that this ad was created by the Marine Corps Recruiting Command (MCRC) in Quantico, VA as a recruiting tool to target African American citizens. The Marine Corps (and everyone else) is fully aware of the statistics which illustrate that African Americans are more prone to having difficulty swimming- whether in boot camp or TBS.

As a result, MCRC decided to interview hundreds of "minority" Marines on what their greatest challenges were in boot camp. Swimming was the number one challenge. This particular staff sergeant's story was chosen; the result is the commercial which has caused the controversy we're discussing today.

The fact is that yes, this commercial was created SPECIFICALLY to target Black America. This commercial was specifically and intentionally aired during an NBA basketball game. This commercial intentionally used a black staff sergeant as the main character: to target Black America. It was all intentional, it was all created in the name of "recruiting." In addition to the swimming stats of Black America, another set of statistics that were analyzed was the number of black Marines currently serving in our Corps. The next question then became: how can we increase the number of black Marines in our Corps? Well, this commercial was one of the answers... in addition, other answers to minority recruiting of black citizens is active duty Marines being very visible figures at events such as the CIAA basketball tournaments, the Bayou Classic, and other forums in which there is a high concentration of black individuals.

The reason the question, "Is this ad racist" was posed, is because it can be seen in one of two ways since the Marine Corps did not just come right out and say, "Hey, we're targeting black people with this ad, hope no one gets offended."
1- the ad can be seen as extremely motivating (which it is), and it can be seen as "oh, they just HAPPENED to put a black man in this particular commercial about someone having issues with swimming (which was NOT the case).... or
2- Um.... the Marine Corps doesn't use black individuals in any other commercial as their main character- and now when they do, they use it to exploit one of the statistical weaknesses of black people??

So let's not be so quick to say that it's not racist. It DOES touch on a sensitive issue. If the Marine Corps had more commercials depicting a black individual as the main character (i.e., in "normal" circumstances), then perhaps folks wouldn't be so "touched" by the fact that the one commercial in which a black main character is featured, it's the one commercial that "happens" to discuss the fact that black people "can't swim." And yes, it IS about black people that can't swim.... not just "anybody" that can't swim, but black people. Although it is a beautiful thing that the commercial motivates more than just black people to overcome their fears of swimming and other obstacles that may be faced as a servicemember.

It is a sensitive issue. Bravo to the Marine Corps for trying its best to target a certain audience to recruit more of that audience into its ranks, but it also wouldn't be a bad idea to use black main characters in some of its other motivating commercials in which weaknesses are not blatantly pointed out. In doing so, more individuals would be more inclined to not see color as an issue. But we're missing the point here- color IS the issue. Does that means it's racist? Not necessarily. But color IS the issue here. I'll reiterate that this commercial was created specifically to target black America in a recruiting campaign.

I'm just stating the facts. I hope the Marine Corps releases a statement letting everyone know that yes, "we were targeting a certain audience in hopes that it draws more of that audience into our ranks.... and we also hope that everyone else was motivated by the message as well. We didn't mean to offend anyone..."

In the long run, you can't deny that when you set aside the "recruitment" aspect of the commercial, you can truly get chill bumps by how motivating the different scenes are!

[Unregistered]

Come on people! It's a great ad. Everything does not need to be seen through the prism of "racism." I think the people calling it so are called BMW's - bitch, moan and wine about black, so called victimhood.
Knock it off.
Chuck, class of '55 USMCR

[Unregistered]

Hey, black people. We know you can’t swim. That’s okay! We’ll teach you how, and then let you ride in a cool boat, if you just sign up for the Marines now. Okay?’ ” ???????

How about, " Hey anyone who may be seeing this ad, if you are concerned about your swimming ability, we can help you overcome it. In this REAL case, we did." It is an attempt to reach an audience who may be reluctant to try. How do we convince people to do anything. We send a resounding message, "YOU can do it." Thats all this is.

I am sick and tired of the society of victims we are building. Just because you can read into something does not mean that was the intent. This is NOT a racist ad nor does it cross the threshold of even being interpreted as offensive. You want to be offended watch some stand up comedy acts sometime. They are riddled with racist remarks and inuendo. This is a shot by the democrats to trip up the military in an attempt to make Barrack Obama look more electable. I say to the offended, GET REAL. This discussion is a waste.

Well Mr. Teach Black People How to Swim. You are solidifying why a BLACK MAN like myself takes things that might mean little, out of context. I can swim and have been swimming since age 8. My Dad taught me. So, before anyother stereo types fly out. Yes, he was a Dad that reared me at home. I did not come from a single parent home. So, I did not need you are the Corps to teach me how to swim. I have been in the Corps for over 20 plus years and remarks like yours do cause me to look at things from a different perpective. Through out my years I have been told numerous time to get over things... Your comment... I am sure someone out there is saying just get over it. LOL!!! Some things will not change....but the bottom like is the question of racism. My answer is no. BUT!!!!!!!! Becuase of people like you. I can see how someone might take this ad out of context.

[Unregistered]

People thinking this is racist are complete idiots. Me being a Devil Pup I will have you know that many Pups who were brought to the 35 ft. tower to jump into the pool were scared out of their mind. I was scared as well, being a Hispanic and all.

Whatever motive it gave the recruiters to make an ad like this it all brings it down to the point:

"JOIN THE MARINE CORPS!"

End of story.

[Unregistered]

Without "exposing" who I am.... I will say that I am a Marine.
Secondly, I know first-hand that this ad was created by the Marine Corps Recruiting Command (MCRC) in Quantico, VA as a recruiting tool to target African American citizens. The Marine Corps (and everyone else) is fully aware of the statistics which illustrate that African Americans are more prone to having difficulty swimming- whether in boot camp or TBS.
The fact is that yes, this commercial was created SPECIFICALLY to target Black America. This commercial was specifically and intentionally aired during an NBA basketball game. This commercial intentionally used a black staff sergeant as the main character: to target Black America. It was all intentional, it was all created in the name of "recruiting." In addition to the swimming stats of Black America, another set of statistics that were analyzed was the number of black Marines currently serving in our Corps. So let's not be so quick to say that it's not racist. It DOES touch on a sensitive issue. If the Marine Corps had more commercials depicting a black individual as the main character (i.e., in "normal" circumstances), then perhaps folks wouldn't be so "touched" by the fact that the one commercial in which a black main character is featured, it's the one commercial that "happens" to discuss the fact that black people "can't swim." And yes, it IS about black people that can't swim.... not just "anybody" that can't swim, but black people. Although it is a beautiful thing that the commercial motivates more than just black people to overcome their fears of swimming and other obstacles that may be faced as a servicemember.


I'm just stating the facts. I hope the Marine Corps releases a statement letting everyone know that yes, "we were targeting a certain audience in hopes that it draws more of that audience into our ranks.... and we also hope that everyone else was motivated by the message as well. We didn't mean to offend anyone..."

In the long run, you can't deny that when you set aside the "recruitment" aspect of the commercial, you can truly get chill bumps by how motivating the different scenes are!

Ok gotcha. However, even though as you say it WAS intentionally made to target blacks. Isn't it a fantastic statement that it isn't perceived that way. That it is taken as a fantastic ad that send sout a positive message to both the blacks and whites and hispanics who have posted on this thread.

So, honestly. Who cares if it was. That man is a heroe to this white person. Overcoming obstacles and feears is what it's about. Semper Fi to you Marine. I salute you.

[NIAGARAJOE66]

There is no way that this ad is racist.
There are many people who can't swim - White, Black, Latino, etc. When are we going to tell the "Politically Correct Liberals" (who are a small miniority of our total population) to 'Shove It........"

[Unregistered]

Why not ask Staff Sgt. Thomas Hill? If the accusers want answers, the commercial seems to be based on his real-life experience.

[Unregistered]

Quote:
Originally Posted by Unregistered
Without "exposing" who I am.... I will say that I am a Marine.
Secondly, I know first-hand that this ad was created by the Marine Corps Recruiting Command (MCRC) in Quantico, VA as a recruiting tool to target African American citizens. The Marine Corps (and everyone else) is fully aware of the statistics which illustrate that African Americans are more prone to having difficulty swimming- whether in boot camp or TBS.
The fact is that yes, this commercial was created SPECIFICALLY to target Black America. This commercial was specifically and intentionally aired during an NBA basketball game. This commercial intentionally used a black staff sergeant as the main character: to target Black America. It was all intentional, it was all created in the name of "recruiting." In addition to the swimming stats of Black America, another set of statistics that were analyzed was the number of black Marines currently serving in our Corps. So let's not be so quick to say that it's not racist. It DOES touch on a sensitive issue. If the Marine Corps had more commercials depicting a black individual as the main character (i.e., in "normal" circumstances), then perhaps folks wouldn't be so "touched" by the fact that the one commercial in which a black main character is featured, it's the one commercial that "happens" to discuss the fact that black people "can't swim." And yes, it IS about black people that can't swim.... not just "anybody" that can't swim, but black people. Although it is a beautiful thing that the commercial motivates more than just black people to overcome their fears of swimming and other obstacles that may be faced as a servicemember.


I'm just stating the facts. I hope the Marine Corps releases a statement letting everyone know that yes, "we were targeting a certain audience in hopes that it draws more of that audience into our ranks.... and we also hope that everyone else was motivated by the message as well. We didn't mean to offend anyone..."

In the long run, you can't deny that when you set aside the "recruitment" aspect of the commercial, you can truly get chill bumps by how motivating the different scenes are!



Is the commercial racist...no, does it touch on a sensitive issue....yes. Get over it America, where was the racist out cry back when the movie "White men can't jump" came out? So some say blacks can't swim, and others say whites can't jump...so what! Can we move on to more important issues?

[usmcbrat]

To suggest this commercial is racist is complete BS. The Marine in the video voluntarily participated to appeal to African American males. To show that it is possible to overcome something that as an individual he thought to be challenging. Organizations will always find reasons to poke holes and criticise recruiting tactics. If the percentage of minorities in the DEP or recruitment programs spikes up recruiters are accused of profiling and targeting minorities, if the percentage of minorities declines than recruiters are accused of being racist and not giving minorities a fair shot. GIVE ME A FREAKIN BREAK! The race card is old....next a congradulatory pat on the rear (generally used as a sportsman gesture) is going to be viewed as homoerotic or homophobic stab at the gay community. Seriously, quit ragging.

[Sergeant Major Ward]

The question should not be about the commercial being racist, but should be about it stereotyping. The next question that should be asked is "is this stereotype true or false?" If you conclude that it is true, then you should ask why. I can tell you from my perspective that the answer is simple. It is somewhat true. Over the years and again from my perspective many black children did not grow up swimming, hunting, or doing a lot of other things that are considered common in the military. It really doesn't have anything to do with thier ability, but all to do with thier background and upbringing. It is getting better as society continues to balance out more. Cultures are criscrossing.

When describing this commercial, the acusation of it being a racist commercial is the wrong choice of words. When you use the word racist it usually is associated with incendiary remarks or malicious depictions. This commercial has or does neither. The question given to this commercial should be more carefully considered, otherwise the very question being asked sparks up controversy.

sgtmajward@yahoo.com

[Marnethunder63b10]

Good Lord? What next? Seems that some will do anything to get publicity to the extent of misconstruing a simple ad' to serve their purpose. While we are at it, why don't we say that the ad's that make men/women look incompetent ...sexist? It is pretty sad that when someone offers their experience to be part of a commercial, they have to endure the ridicule of someone else wanting the ad to have "sublte-racial tones" behind it.

Is this guy who is making the accusation even in any branch of the service? maybe an uncle? a grandmother perhaps?

[Unregistered]

this is not racist at all. the only thing racist is the person(s) that call it racist, they are the ones that cant get over it

[Gunny_2862]

All this crazy talk over a advertisment? The only racial things I saw in this entire post is those people who refer to themselves as African Americans, Mexican Americans, etc...on and on.

We are AMERICANS...we left the other trash behind us. It may live in memory and some things may be passed down as family history, but we are Americans....non other and no prefix needed.

I am sick and tired of that trash as I would never be allowed to take the moniker, or allow myself to be called Welsh American.

[Unregistered]

i am black myself,and matter of fact i loved it.come on give me a brake,all i am seeing from this is that you can over come your fears if you really want to do something,so whom ever is wasteing their time worrying about this one little thing,may need to get up and find something they like doing and over come the fear of the crazyness their trippin on.we have more imporant things to worry about than this,what you cant swim lmao

[Unregistered]

I would submit that critics of the ad are themselves racist. They stereotype all nonblack races by failing to understand other races could be motivated by the add. I guess my problem is that I only saw the guy in the ad as "human." I would challenge everyone to push that mindset. Whenever I get a form that asks me my race, I literally write HUMAN in the blank. We are never going to get anywhere as a planet until we think that way. And when someone challnges you on a "racist topic" just respond back, "You know, I never thought of you as anything other than human - you are the one that brought race into the issue. What's that make you?"

[Rastaman]

If this ad is based on someone's actual experiences, how could it possibly be seen as racist?Even if it was completely made up, why is it so bad that this young man learned to swim in the Marine Corps? Does it ever occur to these people that, perhaps this young man may have never had the opportunity to learn to swim before and it was the Corps that first gave him a chance to compete with everyone else equally? :confused:

[GunnGriff]

Only in the misguided eyes of the modern PC Clown is this a racist ad. It is an ad about fear, hope & strength found within our beloved Corps. Semper Fi and keep the ads rolling.

[Unregistered]

I am O-3 in the Navy....in the Marine Corps you cannot swing a dead cat without hitting a black Sgt Major. So there is something right going on there.

It is true that for whatever sets of reasons African Americans who grew up at a certain time and of a certain class never had the opportunity to go swimming. I wonder if that is changing

The ad reminds me of my swim test in Pensacola. But I did have one shipmate who was reluctant to make the jump. I was a swimmer in high school so I had no problem, and I was happy to help. Actually it was 120 in the shade that day and all I could think is that my CNTs were melting into my skin outside, so I will do this all afternoon if I have to.

I got payback however because I did buttercup in JAX when it was 50 degrees. That was not nearly as fun.

[SFCHUNTER]

A racist ad? Come on, give me a break. It was a recruiting tool used to show what overcoming your fears can do for you. The blogger who originally said this was a racist ad had entirely too much time on his/her hands. Everything is not a conspiracy. Don't get me wrong, as a black man who served 24 years in the Army, if I looked for a racist twist in my everyday life then I wouldn't have had the time to train and lead my Soldiers. Am I saying racism doesn't exist, NO!! All I am saying is that it wasn't in this commercial.

[Unregistered]

I join the marine corps in 1951 there was seven blacks including me I was the only one who smim

[Unregistered]

As an Army Officer I have had contact numerous Soldiers from all different races and backgrounds who can't swim. What amazes me more than anything is just how many people can't swim......period, be them male, female, white, black, purple or green! It has nothing to do with the color of your skin. This is in no way a racist commercial. It merely states that through the training and confidence building the military provides (regardles of branch of service), we can teach the young and now some of the older to accomplish almost anything they put their minds to. I think it's a great commercial!

[Unregistered]

Video: http://www.militarytimes.com/multimedia/video/061208mc_marine_video_leap/


Staff Sergeant Thomas Hill's own experience is the story behind this newest recruiting ad yet some claim it's racist. What do you think?


Racist recruiting? Marine Corps ad draws fire

The Marine Corps’ newest recruiting commercial aimed at targeting minorities tackles a long-running and often-controversial debate involving black American youth: swimming ability.

Called “Leap,” the commercial shows a young black man standing at a high diving platform overlooking a swimming pool.

“I faced one of the toughest challenges of my life right here,” the narrator says. “I couldn’t swim.”

Encouraged by his drill instructor’s urging not to give up, the man goes for it.

“So I jumped in,” he says. “Unsure, apprehensive and scared out of my mind. But I came up a Marine.”

The man emerges not from a swimming pool, but from open water, in face paint and combat gear. A rubber boat filled with Marines zooms by and pulls the man inside.

The ad reflects the real-life story of Staff Sgt. Thomas Hill, a senior drill instructor at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., according to a Marine recruiting Web site, our.marines.com.

Hill volunteered to tell his story when he heard the Corps was looking for ideas for a new commercial, according to the site. “He wants others who approach life the way he did to understand what being a Marine can do for them.”

The popular blog Gawker.com, however, derided the ad as “subtle stereotyping.”

“The Marines send a simple, straightforward message: ‘Hey, black people. We know you can’t swim. That’s okay! We’ll teach you how, and then let you ride in a cool boat, if you just sign up for the Marines now. Okay?’ ”

In 1993, then-Commandant Gen. Carl E. Mundy Jr. launched a storm of controversy by telling an interviewer on “60 Minutes” that whites outperform blacks in objective military tests, including swimming.

“In the military skills, we find that the minority officers do not shoot as well as the non-minorities… They don’t swim as well. And when you give them a compass and send them across the terrain at night in a land navigation exercise, they don’t do as well at that sort of thing.”

More recently, a retired Army reserve officer running for the U.S. House of Representatives in 2006 was videoed at a Christian Coalition making similar comments: “I grew up in Alabama and I understand and I know this from my own experiences that blacks aren’t the best swimmers or may not even know how to swim.”

The comments cost Tramm Hudson his shot at winning the Republican nomination for Florida’s 13th District.


Article: http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/06/military_swim_061208w/
THE BLOGGER WHO JUMP STARTED THIS IS A RACIST HIMSELF, OR IT WOULD NEVER HAVE APPEARED. THE MARINE DOING THE COMMERCIAL IS OUR FRIEND WHO HAS SPENT TIME AWAY FROM HIS DUTY TO COMFORT US FOR THE LOSS OF OUR SON. SHAME ON ALL THOSE WHO HIDE BEHIND HURTFUL WORDS.

[Unregistered]

How the heck can this ad be racist!! It's just showing a black man over coming his fear of the water. I bet if that was a white man in the ad, this racist issue would have never been brought unless some black person would become jealous and ask why there isn't a black man doing that commercial. By the way, who ever started this has to be black and has nothing better else to do but to start a stir on some nonsense.

[BTHOMAS]

No, I do not believe the ad that I viewed is in anyway racist. It is simply a recruiting ad towards Black males who may be interested in the Marines Corps. Why are you hyping this as a racist ad? Instead of reaching for racist and offensive policies where there are none; why not direct the focus of Military Times to matters that are unfair such as:

the Uniformed Services Former Spouses Protection Act This blatantley unfair act takes by force of law the retirement pay of a military member and gives it to a spouse (most often a former wife) whether she deserves it or not. This act is so unfair, that I have heard of a case where a military member has chosen to separate just short of the mandatory retirement year than to have his tramp wife get half of his retirement. I have also read of cases where the former wife has remarried and is now wealthy or well off financially. The wife gets the check for life, regardless of her infidelity, wealth, or any other indiscretion in her past. I'm sure there will be changes made to this act when it begin to affect retiring female members and the male spouse is the potential benefactor.

The disgraceful Department of Veterans' Affairs disability rating system is just as onerous as the USFSPA is to the military member. Why don't military times take the lead in exposing just how reckless the VA is in it's treatment of veterans? Perform root cause analyses and highlight verbatim how horrid it is to face those incorrigible people who work there. Do a step by step investigation of what happens to a veterans from the time his/her case enters the VA, and print the results. It won't be pretty.

These are positive things that I as an AF Times subscriber would recommend that you do with the pages in your paper rather than insult your readers with trivia crap as to whether the Marine ad is racist.


B. Thomas
CMSGT (Ret)

[Lefty]

Everyone seems to be way too sensitive about this type of thing. I could be mad that there are no white people in this add, and that it focuses too much on a black male. This is a great add, and hopefully the USMC's numbers will rise because of it.

[Unregistered]

Someone needs to grab the senior editors of Military Times by their throats and throttle them hard! This article isn't news. It is a cheap stunt to quote from the opinion of a radical and utterly contemptible extreme liberal blog site, Gawker.com.

I invite anyone to go visit that website and read the vitriol on exhibit there, and then come back here and comment on the fitness of that site to speak on matters of military issues. I doubt anyone in the military will come away with any other response except to declare outrage at the Military Times editorial staff for such shameless gutter-sniping!

The true story here isn't that Marine recruiting ad. The true story here is the irresponsibility of the Military Times to engage in such yellow journalism. The Defense Department nor the US Marines are under fire for that ad. Instead, you have a shrill extreme blog site getting far more press attention courtesy the Military Times staff than they deserve.

Slow news day?

When the news isn't enough to get interest, go create news?

Let me clue in the Military Times staff so there's no misunderstanding.

Every time you play one of these cheap cards you lose viewership. You lose credibility. Worse, you lose influence. There's always a human interest story out there to fill column space. Even though it may not spark much feedback it nevertheless preserves your overall credibility so that when a truly important news story comes along you still have an audience to read your reports! On a slow news day, select one of those human interest stories always at the ready vice repeat this pathetic news effort.

If your current editorial staff cannot understand that concept, then your owners should fire them immediately for gross incompetence!

Don't make this mistake again!

[Unregistered]

THE BLOGGER WHO JUMP STARTED THIS IS A RACIST HIMSELF, OR IT WOULD NEVER HAVE APPEARED. THE MARINE DOING THE COMMERCIAL IS OUR FRIEND WHO HAS SPENT TIME AWAY FROM HIS DUTY TO COMFORT US FOR THE LOSS OF OUR SON. SHAME ON ALL THOSE WHO HIDE BEHIND HURTFUL WORDS.


You paying attention Military Times staff? Are you taking the time to read these words?

You see the pain your thoughtless act has caused at least one military family?

There's a war on in case you haven't realized it! Wake up! Your actions reflect on yourselves as surely as our actions reflect on us.

You want to have relevancy? Get back to the core mission of your newspaper to report the actual news and events of the military. Stop using ridiculous radical blog sites as primary sources for your news stories.

A public apology from the staff of Military Times -- to appear in all their associated military publications -- is not only warranted, but must be issued immediately to have any effectiveness. Else, you prove you don't care about the military people serving in war whom you say are your customers.

[Frank R Gamble]

NO ! NO !

I entered the USMC in Feb 1950 as a High School drop out.
I did not see racist in Boot Camp. There were more then JUST
White's in the Plt. I retired in April 1980. I servied with:

BLACKS
REDS
YELLOWS
BROWNS
WHITES
WERE WERE MEMBERS OF THE SAME CORPS !

SEMPER FIDELIS


Checkout you Latin Dictionary. SEMPER FI
TRANSLATES TO " AWAY S NOTHING '

Frank R Gamble
Captain USMC Retired

[Unregistered]

I am a black soldier in the Army who barely knew CPR before I joined. Now I am a medic with the 25th IN DIV (HI) who not only treated and/or saved a dozen or so lives my last deployment to Iraq in 06/07, but is now preparing to go to medical school to become a MD.

That Marine joined the service and overcame his fear of the water and I am sure he excelled at whatever else he endeavored. I joined the Army and overcame my fear of blood and WILL become a success.

It's not about the color of the skin, but the content of the character within.

[Unregistered]

Without "exposing" who I am.... I will say that I am a Marine.
Secondly, I know first-hand that this ad was created by the Marine Corps Recruiting Command (MCRC) in Quantico, VA as a recruiting tool to target African American citizens. The Marine Corps (and everyone else) is fully aware of the statistics which illustrate that African Americans are more prone to having difficulty swimming- whether in boot camp or TBS.

As a result, MCRC decided to interview hundreds of "minority" Marines on what their greatest challenges were in boot camp. Swimming was the number one challenge. This particular staff sergeant's story was chosen; the result is the commercial which has caused the controversy we're discussing today.

The fact is that yes, this commercial was created SPECIFICALLY to target Black America. This commercial was specifically and intentionally aired during an NBA basketball game. This commercial intentionally used a black staff sergeant as the main character: to target Black America. It was all intentional, it was all created in the name of "recruiting." In addition to the swimming stats of Black America, another set of statistics that were analyzed was the number of black Marines currently serving in our Corps. The next question then became: how can we increase the number of black Marines in our Corps? Well, this commercial was one of the answers... in addition, other answers to minority recruiting of black citizens is active duty Marines being very visible figures at events such as the CIAA basketball tournaments, the Bayou Classic, and other forums in which there is a high concentration of black individuals.

The reason the question, "Is this ad racist" was posed, is because it can be seen in one of two ways since the Marine Corps did not just come right out and say, "Hey, we're targeting black people with this ad, hope no one gets offended."
1- the ad can be seen as extremely motivating (which it is), and it can be seen as "oh, they just HAPPENED to put a black man in this particular commercial about someone having issues with swimming (which was NOT the case).... or
2- Um.... the Marine Corps doesn't use black individuals in any other commercial as their main character- and now when they do, they use it to exploit one of the statistical weaknesses of black people??

So let's not be so quick to say that it's not racist. It DOES touch on a sensitive issue. If the Marine Corps had more commercials depicting a black individual as the main character (i.e., in "normal" circumstances), then perhaps folks wouldn't be so "touched" by the fact that the one commercial in which a black main character is featured, it's the one commercial that "happens" to discuss the fact that black people "can't swim." And yes, it IS about black people that can't swim.... not just "anybody" that can't swim, but black people. Although it is a beautiful thing that the commercial motivates more than just black people to overcome their fears of swimming and other obstacles that may be faced as a servicemember.

It is a sensitive issue. Bravo to the Marine Corps for trying its best to target a certain audience to recruit more of that audience into its ranks, but it also wouldn't be a bad idea to use black main characters in some of its other motivating commercials in which weaknesses are not blatantly pointed out. In doing so, more individuals would be more inclined to not see color as an issue. But we're missing the point here- color IS the issue. Does that means it's racist? Not necessarily. But color IS the issue here. I'll reiterate that this commercial was created specifically to target black America in a recruiting campaign.

I'm just stating the facts. I hope the Marine Corps releases a statement letting everyone know that yes, "we were targeting a certain audience in hopes that it draws more of that audience into our ranks.... and we also hope that everyone else was motivated by the message as well. We didn't mean to offend anyone..."

In the long run, you can't deny that when you set aside the "recruitment" aspect of the commercial, you can truly get chill bumps by how motivating the different scenes are!

How can you say that this ad is targeting african americans if an african american was the one who volunteered to tell his true story on how he over came his fear of not being able to swim. This is the story of him and not no one else. He could have be afraid of heights, but he was not. He was afraid he couldn't swim and the Marines made him over come that fear. You think the Marines asked him if they can do a commercial on him since he is one of the few african americans who cannot swim to encourage more african americans to join the Marines?

[Unregistered]

I am a retired Naval officer, that just happens to be black. I learned to swim when I was 3 years old. I completed Navy enlisted boot camp and saw many fellow black that could not swim, but learned how in boot camp. I don't think the story is racist. Get a life people, try visiting the YMCA and see the classes, where they are teaching people to swim. WHY DOES EVERYTHING HAVE TO BE RACIST?

[USNMSC]

In my opinion, it's the left wing wackos in this country, stabbing our US Marines in the back, AGAIN!! This video is in no way racist. I look at this video as a motivational tool, for individuals of all skin colors. All the video displays is the courage of one man to tackle his fear, and in doing so, was awarded one of the greatest honors, becoming a US Marine.

[Unregistered]

No!!! However, everytime a black-american is portrayed in any kind of situation, e.g., insurance salesperson, school teacher, medical doctor, lawyer, U.S. presidential candidate, someone from the "liberal left-winger" will cry "racism"

[Mike Marshall Taunton, MA]

I think if ANYONE finds this commercial racist they are LOOKING for it... People have far too much time on their hands to begin picking and probing.

Why is it Racist? Because it was a black man transformed? We start to include black men and women as part the norm and suddenly it's Racist.

America needs to wake up and move on past all this black and white crap... Stop being so hung up on the past. You're not black... You're not white.... You're American... Now come together and act like it.

[gibillh]

I cannot believe that people have nothing else to do but complain about a USMC Recruiting advertisement being racial. This pure and unadulturated bullsh#t. This is based on a true life story of a young Marine that has now become a leader, trainer and mentor to younger Marines. I swear some of you liberal assho&%s really get under my skin. SERIOUSLY GET A FRIGGIN LIFE.:mad: :mad2:

[Unregistered]

I live in South Africa and my long term boyfriend is currently in the marine corps boot camp!!
I often stress and worry about him,so i always watch marine corps ads on the net.Just kinda a way for me to understand what it all entails.When I watched this ad I did not even for a second considered it to be racist,I actually found that it was inspiring and very well thought out!!

[Norm]

This ad, while targeting a specific market - black recruits- is absolutely NOT racist.

This ad depicts a black recruit achieving a goal and conquering a personal obstacle as part of Marine Corps training-and I think the message it sends is that he becomes a full-up Marine just as good and as tough as the others in his boat team that pick him up through the training he gets in the Marines.

I don't have all the data, but there is some information that indicates that blacks and other minorities may statistically have less swimming ability as a group because, coming from a poorer background than non minorities, a larger percentage don't have access to swimming pools or swimming training growing up, leading to a larger percentage of them who don't get to learn to swim-not because blacks can't swim-because a larger number of them don't get to.

If anything, the ad says the Marines look past that and make black Marines full up Marines like the rest-regardless of their socioeconomic background

[RC Henry GySgt Ret]

No, No, No. I am a dark green Marine who went through some of the same challenges. Yes, I could swim prior to going to PI in 1983. The only thing I see is a Marine that had to overcame his fears. That's part of recruit training isn't it? I have seen light green Marines that had to overcome their fears in recruit training and other training enviroments. Someone needs to find something else to do other than to find something in nothing. Get a life you civilian maggots.

[Unregistered]

I'm a Marine, I'm black, I'm female. I see nothing racist about the commercial.

Semper Fi

[Unregistered]

Not racist. Not even close.

[ohio44902]

W~T~F? I see this ad as being something great for the MARINES! Iits going after people even if they might be BLACK,BROWN,RED, or WHITE to do something great and overcome your fears! Shit i know alot of white people that can't swim! Does that make me RACIST because I said that? We need more ads like this. People just need to grow the F@$% UP and deal with it!!!!!!!!!!!


E-4
Infantry, US Army

[sigecaps]

Here's a Marine DI telling a Marine Recruit he doesn't think he can swim but he won't say why. =/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZdNtTnt0pI

[Unregistered]

The commercial in question is not observed as being racist. As a black man I applaud this commercial for inspiring others to embrace the opportunity to venture into new territory. The opportunity for learning how to swim while growing up may not have be available, depending upon the location of where a person grew up, so does that make it racial? I think not. I to have been a Marine and learned how to swim after joining the Marines. The Marines have a long history of being known as an amphibious unit. Maybe those viewing it as racist needs to inventory of their own thoughts and belief system about the myth of black men not being able to swim.

[Unregistered]

The reason the question, "Is this ad racist" was posed, is because it can be seen in one of two ways since the Marine Corps did not just come right out and say, "Hey, we're targeting black people with this ad, hope no one gets offended."
1- the ad can be seen as extremely motivating (which it is), and it can be seen as "oh, they just HAPPENED to put a black man in this particular commercial about someone having issues with swimming (which was NOT the case).... or
2- Um.... the Marine Corps doesn't use black individuals in any other commercial as their main character- and now when they do, they use it to exploit one of the statistical weaknesses of black people??


The Marines did use a black man in a version of the "Reach the Summit" commercial. There were two versions.

[Unregistered]

Are they on crack? Racist? Don't these people have anything better to do with their time than to start shit? This commercial was based on one's man story. He is black and could not swim. So what? Stop wasting our time with bullshit issues, there are too many REAL racism issues to be dealt with.

[Unregistered]

That is the dumbest crap I ever heard! This hard-charging Marine is now a drill instructor, who molds the youth of today into basically trained Marines. These Marines come from all walks of life.
What next? Are they going to say that white people never drown!

[Unregistered]

Let's see: I am a civilian who found this by accident 'cause I spend too much time on the Internet. I support Obama, I oppose the Iraq War, I'm a liberal, and I am here to take your guns away. Well, on second thought, you can keep your guns. Anyway, the ad wasn't racist. The website's accusation is laughable, as in, "Oh brother, you've <i>got</i> to be kidding!"

I would make one point, though. The outraged reactions here are almost as ridiculous as the website's accusation. Have a little more confidence, and have a better sense of humor. There is no shortage of fools, and sometimes all you can really do is laugh at them. You know, sort of like when some crazy wingnut peaches about sin and then gets caught with a pipe full of meth and a half a dozen hookers.

S*** happens.

[Unregistered]

I saw this commercial for the first time today...and racism was the last thing that came to mind. What I thought was it was a good example of how joining the Marines (or any kind of military) can make you grow up and face your fears...
I saw this first hand recently. The young (punk) son of a friend of mine, joined the Marines...and came home a man....the change in attitude was remarkable and for the better!!!
BTW, I had no idea that swimming was an issue with African-American youth...
Trish

[alex]

whithe, yellow latin people can also be afraid of swiming, jajajaja, i dont see a problem with this ad, maybe a problem with the context those who think is racist want to gove to it.

[isolde525]

No that ad is not racist. I agree with "Sgt Grandpa".
Stated simply, he's a man who couldn't swim, and jumped in anyway.
I think that shows courage, and willingness to face challenges, the unknown.
The landing boat with fellow Marines grabbing his hand is just cool.

Now, there are plenty of racist things out there, but this ad is not one of them!
Thank you for your service, all !

Isolde

[Unregistered]

I do not believe this commercial is racist at all. It shows a man over coming his fears and growing as an individual and as a member of a fighting team. People can perceive implied racisim in almost anything if they have a mindset to do so, years ago they saw a communist under every bed.

[Unregistered]

There is no color in the Corps. There are only Marines. People are always looking for excuses. The Marines take away excuses. Someone that doesn't like this ad is only looking for an excuse for their failures in life.

[ICEMAN42]

Heck no I don’t think the video is racist. I’m tired of everything in America being so darn touchy feely. It is what it is – a recruiting video. Some people need to get a life. All the problems we have in America and they have nothing better to do but hamper on minute stuff. Get over it… By the way…I’m black. Now what… are you going to call me a sell out now?

[Sgt Grandpa]

And with that said (and well said at that Ice), I vote we cease and desist on this thread. We have proven beyond doubt that this commercial is NOT racist, was NOT intended to be racist, nor bias in anyway.

Thus I believe we have come to the end of this thread. To the Panel, thank you for your time and grace. To the Prosecution, I believe we have the verdict you expected. To the defence, maybe they should show up to explain what they mean.

[Unregistered]

It is absolutely ridiculous that anybody would say that this ad is racist! Just because he is black?! Who cares! In the Marine Corps we dont have "Black, White, Purple, Yellow, etc"...we only have "GREEN". Hey...call it an old saying, but it IS THE TRUTH! The video is simply showing the self-pride and courage that the USMC instills in us all. Who ever came up with the idea of this ad being "racist" is the only one with the problem in the first place to even think that up based on the Marine's color. If you read the entire article in this magazine you would see that the ad was that Marine's idea in the first place. He just simply wanted to show what he had become. You want to know something else? Well, I know of plenty of "white, etc" Marine who can't swim!

Doesn't surprise me in the least that somebody somewhere would think this whole "racism crap" up! By the way...there is a war going on in Iraq! Did you forget about that?

[Unregistered]

Ummm, yeah, whomever you are, you make an ignorant argument. To say that whites are persecuted more than any other race in this country is complete ignorance. Educate yourself before you comment again, olease.

Well whoever you are please don't put the cart before the horse as the individual might have a point from the white perspective. If you take a minute and try to understand the comment you may feel some apathy.

I realize that white priviledge exists but that doesn't mean whites aren't the subject of racism and if they respond the table is turned and they are unfairly labeled.

The term racist is so missused in america today that if you ask someone the definition they probably don't know.

Is someone who is anti illegal immigration racist? Websters definition would make the answer no!

[Unregistered]

Ok Gang,
All the hundreds of posts. Most agree that even if the ad was intended to target blacks to get more of them in the Marines. The ad stands as a pwerful and fantastic testimonial to that man in the ad. He is a credit to his uniform.

NOW, what do you know about Flag Etiquette? Go up one thread from this one. Click on the link and learn about the flag. How to properly show support and respect. I bet most of you don't know as much as you think you do.

[Unregistered]

get a life. I've seen the commercial and first thought cerrtainly wasn't racism. These people have way too much time on their hands, get a life.

An African American Serviceman and former Nonswimmer

[Former AA marine]

The Ad is GREAT, If, I was younger, I would sign back up.

[KELTICJUMPER]

That is the probelm with this country. Everything has to take a racist turn no matter what the subject. This country as a whole is so narrow minded that they do not understand that we are our own worst enemy and we are our own downfall. Showing a soldier overcoming his fears and downfalls is not racist it is overcoming his downfalls to accomplish his mission and do what it takes to be a complete soldier. People need to get their heads out of their 4th point of contact and realize that not everything is racially motivated. People who continually find stupid stuff like a recruiting commercial to complain about and call racially motivated are too stupid and uneducated to know the difference. Get a clue people.

[Unregistered]

Well, it doesn't help that many of the Corps' TOP officers have made STUPID comments in the past that provoke this type of thinking, however, I know the makers of this commercial had no intention of perpetuating stereotypes of any sorts. IT'S A TRUE STORY of a SSgt of MARINES who overcame the odds and is a role model for ALL.

[plaid@GA]

No not racist, I was standing in the same spot in Jan. 1964 same fear same color of skin same job to do, become a Marine.

[Stoney1371]

Racist? Is this ad racist? If anything, it's realistic!
I, personnally, watched the Corps back in '68, when it allowed blacks to refrain from wearing covers and blousing garters - because they had 'renowned poor circulation in the feet and legs and it would crush their 'Afros'...yeah that's right, this happened, right at LeJeune.
Anyone who lives in the inner city knows that this 'stereotype' of blacks being poor, or non, swimmers is far more accurate than one would think.
No matter how this message was worded, someone, somewhere, will take issue with it...that's the price of political correctness. You'd think we'd have learned by now.

[rjenkins1946@yahoo.com]

I don't find the ad racist. Its fact. I too am a minority who when the Parris Island in 1967 and cound not swim. I took the leap. I when on to become a Marine Officer and enjoyed a splendid career in the Marine Corps. I say keep the ad in a time when the country need more young people to step up if they truely believe in the freedom of this nation, black or white, or any other freedom loving young American.

Richard C. Jenkins
CWO-5 Ret.

[Unregistered]

The message is this...

Whatever the military branch, whatever the fear, YOU CAN OVERCOME IT...
PERIOD.

Perhaps "racism" is the primary fear of the person or people that tagged this ad as racist.
We as black people HAVE OVERCOME our fears overwhelmingly.

Now it's your turn....

[CWOT]

I was a person just like the DI in the ad. I was a black recruit in 3rd Battalion, Parris Island. I was scared to death of the water until my Senior DI encouraged me to face my fears. 17 years later, I'm a CWO2 in the finest military force known to man. I didn't see black or white in the ad. I saw what most Marines know.......all Marines aren't bullet-stopping, jumping from 100 story building, superheroes. We all have fears at one time or another and usually its another Marine that helps us overcome it. The fact that people thinks it racist.....GIVE ME A BREAK!!!!

[Unregistered]

The BS is that this is that this is one marine's story!! It is not some actor that was hired to read what some writer wrote just because it sounded good.

[SFC (R) Eric White]

One of the coolest recruiting videos I have ever seen. I'm sure the people who have a problem with the video are probably civilians (no offense to civilians, I am one now). All military personel know that we are the BIGGEST equal opportunity employer in the world. All good leaders in the services consider everyone "Green" regardless of their skin color. Racist?? I don't think so.

[Unregistered]

There are no racial lines in the Marines( or at least there weren't a bunch of years ago). There are only lines on commitment, belief and dedication to God, Corps and country. If you can't get past a make believe commercial with actors then maybe you should give boot camp a try. Make sure to ask the drill instructors if they are prejudice or if they tolerate racism.

[Unregistered]

The video is not, only the ones that think the video is are.

But after reading what the Commandant Gen. Carl E. Mundy Jr.said in 1993 one might take it the wrong way. Then again id like to see what report was done to prove such a thing. I have a hard time believing such a thing.

“In the military skills, we find that the minority officers do not shoot as well as the non-minorities… They don’t swim as well. And when you give them a compass and send them across the terrain at night in a land navigation exercise, they don’t do as well at that sort of thing.”

When I was in the Marines there were your Dark Green Marines and Light Green Marines, none the less we were all still Marines.

Shortimer52

[Unregistered]

Those of you that have served in the military especially minorities know damn well that racism still exist in the military. Its just built in if know what I mean. Me being a African-American myself in the Marine Corps for three years and my father doing it for 20yrs as a retired gunny we both know this. Is this commerical racist in a way? Yes it is. It is a play on a sterotype. I cant belive anyone at MCRC didnt see this comming. I can tell people are suprised at me everyday when they see a young black SGT that picked up in less than 3yrs at the age of 20 speak and talked so intellgently when I talk to peers or higher ups. I'm not trying to put myself up or condem the Marine Corps or anything but the truth is the truth period. My father experienced this type of stuff all the way up to 1997 when he got out, and he was around in the 70s when it was real bad.

[justoneopinion]

No. It is not racist.

[Unregistered]

Those of you that have served in the military especially minorities know damn well that racism still exist in the military. Its just built in if know what I mean. Me being a African-American myself in the Marine Corps for three years and my father doing it for 20yrs as a retired gunny we both know this. Is this commerical racist in a way? Yes it is. It is a play on a sterotype. I cant belive anyone at MCRC didnt see this comming. I can tell people are suprised at me everyday when they see a young black SGT that picked up in less than 3yrs at the age of 20 speak and talked so intellgently when I talk to peers or higher ups. I'm not trying to put myself up or condem the Marine Corps or anything but the truth is the truth period. My father experienced this type of stuff all the way up to 1997 when he got out, and he was around in the 70s when it was real bad.

I applaud yor father for being a Marine. Tell him thank you for his time in serving. And thank you too Marine.
I am white. Although right now I have a slight tan so I'm more of a dark beige right now.
I however have chosen to raise my kids to see people not skin color or race. The man in the ad for me is a heroe. Look what he's done with his life, he's conquered fears, he's become a man to lead, to follow, to respect. So for the idiot white people out there I apologize. However, I too have taken my lumps at the mouths of other people who were "offended" by my skin color. But you know what? They were raised to feel like that. I hope they choose to raise their kids as I'm raising mine. To look at the person.
I like the ad. If retirement hasn't come and gone I'd join the Marines after watching that ad. It was motivational.

[Unregistered]

Those of you that have served in the military especially minorities know damn well that racism still exist in the military. Its just built in if know what I mean. Me being a African-American myself in the Marine Corps for three years and my father doing it for 20yrs as a retired gunny we both know this. Is this commerical racist in a way? Yes it is. It is a play on a sterotype. I cant belive anyone at MCRC didnt see this comming. I can tell people are suprised at me everyday when they see a young black SGT that picked up in less than 3yrs at the age of 20 speak and talked so intellgently when I talk to peers or higher ups. I'm not trying to put myself up or condem the Marine Corps or anything but the truth is the truth period. My father experienced this type of stuff all the way up to 1997 when he got out, and he was around in the 70s when it was real bad.

The add is anything but racist. I remember a couple of weeks ago about some who ha to do with a world war 11 film being made saying it was racist because it didnt depit African Americans only whites. Well it seems people will read what they want to read into it. I find it refreshing to see such an add.

Anyone who thinks it is racist has a problem with their own status and worth. Why should people be surprise with your ability to excel based on your skin color? It seems to me that you are placing yourself below your fellow man because of your skin color. Get a grip on yourself man. Never let your skin color dictates your status.

[Unregistered]

The add is anything but racist. I remember a couple of weeks ago about some who ha to do with a world war 11 film being made saying it was racist because it didnt depit African Americans only whites. Well it seems people will read what they want to read into it. I find it refreshing to see such an add.

Anyone who thinks it is racist has a problem with their own status and worth. Why should people be surprise with your ability to excel based on your skin color? It seems to me that you are placing yourself below your fellow man because of your skin color. Get a grip on yourself man. Never let your skin color dictates your status.

I don't know you tell me.Thats the question that I'm trying to answer. Why are people surprised when I preform up to or beyond the standard. I don't know. I just do the job to the best of my ability because that is what is expected of me and every other Marine, or Solider, Sailor, Airmen, or Coast Guardsmen. I definitely do not let my skin color dictate my status, nor do I place myself above or below anyone.

[Unregistered]

WTF? People need to get their head outta their posterior... I loved the commercial and thought it was extremely motivating! Nuf said!!!

[LADYVIOLA]

If the person on the pool tower was female, or overweight, or timid, or any other variable would that be singeling out a specific group? The Marine Corps is a small elite club that not many want to be in nor are they qualified to get in. This is a motovating and stimulating recruiting ad. It isn't aimed at Cindy Sheehan or Al Sharpton. It is aimed at patriots who want to be challenged. Those who object or are negative toward this are laughed at by the Marines. There is an old saying, "Tell it to the Marines." Because they have been everywhere and done everything. They are no longer shocked by anything, even the stupididty of how some people squander the freedom that thousands of young Marines have bled and died to give them. My opinion is that the bleeding heart, thumb sucking, pinko, gender challenged, earth shoe wearing, granny dress garbed, wastes of time ought to be left alone to wallow around in their own mess. Marines have heard worse from far better. Any croud that would heckle from the sidelines should be treated with disdain and held in utter contempt. I'll bet if you ask that dark green Marine who starred in this commercial he would just laugh about it and then go about being one of the few and the proud.

[US Army Retired / DAV]

Get over it people,, this is a motivational commercial the Marine volinteered his story to promote the Marines!!!

Why in the HELL does someone always have to find the negativity in all , Lets get over the bullshit, an move on to more improtant ways of helping all MANKIND, An not what color or what religion they our!!

In the Army we are all: " Mean Green Fighting Machines" We are a band of Briothers not a bond of colors or religions..!!!

Let the Liberals of American keep bringing up the Color/Religists issues an we will never get over it!!

I LOVE America.. The way our forfathers wanted it to be a melting pot of the would with rules fair for all!!

NOT TO BE CHANGED TO MAKE IT BETTER FOR ONE RACE OR RELIGION!!!

Truth is we are always gonna affend someone >>> but dont read into it get over it !!!

AMERICA IS HOME OF THE FREE , BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Unregistered]

It just digusts me to my very bones at how PC this country has gotten. It is ruining us, pitting Americans against each other and at the behest of people who make a lot of money off of it.

FACT: Lot's of blacks can't swim, thats just a fact and it has nothing to do with race. It's just how it is. How many of you that served on active duty, remember drown proofing class, and most of the people at the shallow end were black Soldiers and those in the deep end, white Soldiers? It's not racist, it's just the plain truth and there is no sense in trying to read anything into it, unless you WANT to make it a race issue?

And forgotten in this trumped up issue? The military teaches a lot of blacks not only how to swim, but survive in water scenarios that would result in most Americans drowning, regardless of their color. Whats racist about that?

[Unregistered]

Tell me something, would it be racist if the guy was white? Whats the difference between one marine or the other....we all have had the same training, we can all pull a trigger, and we can all do our job when the crap hits the fan....someone who never served is trying to get their name in the paper

[SGTMAJOR78]

There is not one thing wrong with this commercial. What is wrong and continues to be wrong is that people do not stop this vicious cycle. We all need to worry about today's problem's and not continue to create future problems. We all have red blood and are results of God's creation. No one better then the other. As a Marine of thirty years, I have been in combat with other Marines and other branches of the Armed Forces. We all took care of the other and we fought for each other. We need to do the same in non-combat conditions.

[Unregistered]

You might say they are "targeting" black youths, but it's not racist per se.

It's known that kinfolk *generally* don't like water (swimming), ever watch survivor? You can add ice hockey and shopping at Costco to the list. Chinese people like to gamble and dance-machines at arcades. Whatever the reason, genetic predisposition or otherwise, the marketing folks at the USMC know their target audience.

No one ever calls the white marine ads racist. It's just who they are selling to at the time.

Semper Fi

[Unregistered]

Ummm, yeah, whomever you are, you make an ignorant argument. To say that whites are persecuted more than any other race in this country is complete ignorance. Educate yourself before you comment again, olease.

maybe persecuted is not the right word, but neither is ignorance. I beleive he is talking about todays society, and I somewhat agree. this argument could go on forever if you have a bunch of narrow minded people going at it, but one small example of where i think this first writer was coming from is BET (black entertainment television). Imagine the uprage a channel like WET( white entertainment television)or would bring. I know this isn't the greatest example, but I think we all need to stop segragating ourselves and unite as americans. look past color and take things like this commercial for what they really are. A promotion to strengthen our country by strengthening our militaries.

[unregistered]

I have been in the Air Force since 2001, before that I served in the Marine Corps from 1994-1998. I am white and did not know how to swim when I got to Marine basic training. I remember my dad telling me before I left that I would have to learn to swim when I arrived and to be prepared, because it wouldn't be pretty. The anticipation and fear I felt leading up to swim-qual was terrifying...not just of swimming but of being held back and not graduating with my platoon or being kicked out all together....I thought the worst. I remember when sitting in the 'school circle' getting the non-swimmer training that there where 13 recruits.....11 blacks, 1 Asian, and me...1 white guy....I observed it as being slightly funny; I didn't fit the steroetype. Regardless, the first time I jumped from the platform (scared shitless) I had to be pulled-out by an instructor. After waiting about 20 minutes to regain my bearing, I went for it again....I scrambled and struggled but I made my distance and passed! In one day I had learned to swim and for the rest of my life everything the Marines taught me in basic training has made me a better human being.

This ad is not racist, it is just showing how some things are what they are.....and that with the right attitude the Marine Corps can bring out the best in anyone. If the sterotype is true that blacks don't swim that well, perhaps the answer is financial, accessibility, and neccessity. Racism and prejudice exist, they always will, but we as a society must stop inventing racism and prejudice.

SSgt Dan Damons
RAF Lakenheath, UK

[Unregistered]

I don't think it was intended to be racial at all, but, and I do say but. It is as borderlined as you can get. Honestly, i'm black and can't swim, but who cares, i don't. The air force only cares that i can do my job. I just think that it was a very very bad judgment call on behalf of the writers. The editors should have pulled that on along time ago. If they want to target minorities, there are alot better ways to go about it. I'm sure if they sat down and thought about it they would figure it out. African-Americans and not swimming, sorry marines, you once again proved why other military branches call you jar-head on that one.

[Unregistered]

ok pcture this, a white guy sitting in a car scared pissless of drviing through a black neighborhood. hey white guy, join the marines and you can drive down that strret with dry trousers. get it? maybe not yet. how about the white kid that has to run the 100 meter dash against all the black kids. hey white kid, join the marines, we will teach you to run fast. not yet? ok. how about the white guy who cant dance a lick. join the marines and we can teach you to break it down like vanilla ice. i'm not saying that the ad was racial at all. tackey and tasteless, uhhh.yeah. come on people, they pay you to write ads, you know that there are people in the worl that are touchy feely. you should know that before the pen hits the paper. looks like another jar-headed mistake for the msarines. i guess if he couldnt cook fried chicken then being a marine cook would have taught him his way around the kitchen too. oh, dont get offended people. i'm just saying that there are certain sensitive spots that you dont cross know matter what piont you are trying to get across, because no matter what you do you will always offend somebody. how bout writing ads that appeal across the board instead of targeting a particular age, race, or type of person. watch an air force commercial for goodnes sakes. jsut make the marines look cool. thats all you gotta do. they will see how bad it sucks later and wish that they went to college anyway. but seriously, black people being scared of water, not the way to go. being a marine does not make you a better person, being a consistently good person makes you better, no matter what branch. i seen them all fail form air force to army, navy and marines. teaching a black guy to swim doesnt teach him to succeed, it teaches him not to drown. same as everybody. thanks jar-heads for stirring the pot. glad i didnt join.

[Unregistered]

My husband and I watched this commercial and we thought this was one of the best Marine Corps commercial! My husband is African American and he cannot swim, he was told by his DI the exact same thing and those words are pretty much what got him through the Third Phase!!! So in our eyes this video/ commercial is far from racist. It shows a real problem for many Marines.

[Unregistered]

The only thing this commercial did was make me feel even more proud to be a Marine. The ad is awesome and shows what you can accomplish by joining and serving your country. I myself as a hispanic woman could not swim, now I love it and the Marine Corps did that for me. 12 years of service and four deployments later becoming a Marine is one of the best things I have ever done.
Semper Fi

[Unregistered]

Im looking forward to the US navys "White men Cant Jump" campaign!

Racism exists against people of all races...and victims will always find a reason to be victims. After all, trying is too hard for some people.

[Unregistered]

Absolutely not. What idiot could think that this add is racist? Only a racist of course!

[Russian Jew Now American]

This a very powerful ad, nicely written, directed and shot. Only a sick mind will see a negativity in this video. By the way, living in New York, I had noticed, that black youths rarely sweam at NY beaches. Mostly hanging out in the water hip-deep. Honestly, I would never think about it if not this conversation... So, if it is a common thing among a sertain ethtnical group not to sweam - why is it rasist to say it? It is abvious - if parents don't sweam there is a big chance they will not teach their kids to sweam. And if it happens from generation to generation it may become a pattern. If it is a fact, why fight this? There are many men of Jewish descent wearing glasses. It is a fact. Should we lable anyone who'd notice that as a rasist??
According to this kind of logic the name of the movie "White man can't jump" should be considered a rasist remark...
And there is always someone is trying to gain a political capital... Shame...

[Unregistered]

I say to anyone who believes this is 'racist' to have a nice hot cup of STFU!

Get over it, there is only one color in the military and it's GREEN!

[Unregistered]

Actualy The Air Force, Navy, and Coast Guard are Blue just in case you were wondering and the desert is not green by the way.

[Unregistered]

Not Racist At All

[wpdleo]

How is this racist? It is a story about a recurit conquering his fear and becomes a Marine. There is no stereotype. There is only one color in the Marine Corps, "Green." OohRah!!!

[ty5486]

I swear people are going to play the race card every time they can, because it keeps guys like Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton in business. While most of America is living their lives, not giving a damn about anyone's race, certain people assign race to everything, thereby creating/expanding the racial divide that is trying to heal itself in this country. This ad is not racist, nor biggoted. If you want to see those things check out any sermon by Jeremiah Wright.

[Unregistered]

Ummm, yeah, whomever you are, you make an ignorant argument. To say that whites are persecuted more than any other race in this country is complete ignorance. Educate yourself before you comment again, olease.

Well now isn't that the pot calling the kettle black?.....Oh sorry, I guess that was a racist comment too.

[ty5486]

shoot for all we know Unregistered is having an arguement with him/herself...Every race, religion and people group have been persecuted, and have persecuted so I really don't think anyone should be chucking stones from the lawn of their glass house...

[ringjamesa]

I agree! No I agree! No I Agree!

25 pages of everyone pretty much agreeing and it just keeps going........

[snafu]

Where the hell is the energizer bunny when you need him...just keeps going

[project12]

LOL! The Marine Corps knows that they were laughing the whole time they were making this commercial. Is the Marine Corps racist?:confused:

[SSgtAllen3381]

Ummm, yeah, whomever you are, you make an ignorant argument. To say that whites are persecuted more than any other race in this country is complete ignorance. Educate yourself before you comment again, olease.

Really? Ask that Imus guy how his last job is going. While you are at it, ask Jesse Jackson how he feels about the "N" word he used towards Obama. Jesse "apologized" and all is well, oh yeah, he still has his job. WHATEVER that job is.

Don't tell me you can sit around and call people names and get away with it. But, you can bet you can go play some basketball and be called everything but Larry Bird.

It's easy to persecute a white guy for saying something racist our out of line, but a black guy can pretty much say anything he damn well pleases and gets away with it.

__________________________________________________ ________________________________

Anyway, no, I don't think the ad is racist. Didn't the guy that did the commercial actually come up with the idea for the commercial?

Marines are dying all over the world and we are worried about a damn commercial.

[Blackwind]

No, the add is not racist in the least. Some people need to get their head examined.