The first Black man that the United States Marines have ever promoted to the rank of 4-star general, Michael Langley has officially taken control of Africa Command.

Langley who is of Freedman decent, was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, graduated from the University of Texas at Arlington, and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Marines in 1985. His father Willie Langley was in the Air Force but we’re sure nobody will hold that against him!

Langley was appointed at the Kelley Barracks (near US air command) last Saturday and will lead between 8,000-10,000 troops on the continent.

Many critics consider this to be move more focused on optics than tangible change for either Black US military personnel or the continent of Africa since the US has been reluctant to promote more Black service members to any noteworthy ranks and the fact that the US has accusations from the Burkina Faso, Mali, and Congolese governments of using private mercenaries to destabilize newly formed governments.

When asked for comment at the inaugural ceremony, former renowned general and current Pentagon Chief Lloyd Austin noted that Langley’s “extraordinary achievement reminds them that they belong, and “It reminds them that the United States military is deeply committed to making progress, and to breaking down barriers, and to opening its arms wide to all qualified Americans who hear the call to serve their country.”

–Sgt. Terrence Dorner, B1Daily