Recently AFRICAN-AMERICAN female graduates of the UNITED STATES MILITARY ACADEMY at WEST POINT were investigated for a picture circulated on social media in uniform while invoking the BLACK POWER salute.  The investigation yielded no punishment for the women, however many AFRICAN-AMERICANS were disturbed by the investigation and former WEST POINT grads defended the women's right to express themselves, while others expressed utter disgust.  Just two years ago the U.S. Navy promoted its first female FOUR-STAR ADMIRAL, MICHELLE J. HOWARD, an African-American woman highlighting one of many distinctions African-Americans have achieved throughout U.S history in the Armed Forces.  Both of these examples highlight a long-standing battle among the African-American community.  Some arguing BLACKS should avoid the military altogether, whereas many argue, despite evidence of racism and sexism, the U.S. military has long provided opportunity for African-American men and women to excel.  MENTAL DIALOGUE asking the questions America's afraid to ask.  ALL I ASK IS THAT YOU THINK