[El Gato]

Rep. Charles B. Rangel, a Democrat whose New York City district includes Harlem, said he isn’t too surprised by the Army recruiting data.

“I have not found a black person in support of this war in my district,” he said. “The fact that every member of the Congressional Black Caucus emotionally, politically and vigorously opposes this war is an indication of what black folks think throughout this country

It's an indication of what liberal black CongressCritters think that's true, but otherwise it doesn't mean much

Historically southerners, both black and white, have been over-represented in the military. Inner city recruits, of whatever ethnicity, don't tend to stick around as long as suburban and rural ones. They also tend to be harder to train and create more discipline problems.

[NutCrackerBoy]

Historically southerners, both black and white, have been over-represented in the military.

Here's my analysis of the problem. Unless you are already a patriotic person with an interest in the military, the prospect of Iraq & elsewhere doesn't look too great right now. Instead of black and white, let's look at in terms of Democrats and Republicans. Dems aren't as patriotic. I bet the rate of black enlistment tracks closely to Democrats in general. Once people get in, regardless of background, I think they become patriotic and like the services.