This monograph presents a straightforward and personalized account of the Corps' efforts during the last three decades to increase the presence of African-Americans within its officer ranks. This narrative represents an account of the Marine Corps' efforts to increase the presence of African-Americans in its officer ranks during the period from 1970 to 1995. The word "presence" is used instead of the term "number" in the title of this effort because it transcends the singular focus of quantity. "Presence" underscores the relative importance of certain areas that contribute to the career progression of commissioned officers. Among those areas are accessions, military occupational specialties, assignments, and promotions.