I'm still trying to wrap my head around how much I didn't know about the experiences of Black soldiers in Vietnam 
. It's crazy to think that despite being part of the same military, they faced such unique and traumatic forms of racism. The fact that they were more likely to be victims of racism on and off the battlefield is just heartbreaking 
.I mean, who knew that something like this was happening right under our noses?
It's no wonder that Haygood's book is so important - it sheds light on a pivotal moment in American history that continues to have relevance today 
. I love how the author highlights the ways in which Black soldiers found solidarity with each other despite being subjected to racist treatment 
.It's also crazy to think about how this is still happening today, with the Trump administration trying to rewrite Black military history
. Like, what even is that? 
Anyway, I'm definitely adding "The War Within a War" to my reading list ASAP 
. I mean, think about it, when you're stuck in the trenches with your fellow soldiers, racism takes a backseat to survival mode 
. But what Haygood's book highlights is how Black soldiers were forced to navigate not just the battlefield but also their own country's racist systems. It's like they say: "the war is never won" 
. We need more stories like this being told, especially now with the government trying to erase history 
. It's time for us to remember and honor the sacrifices of our fallen heroes, no matter what their skin color 
.
It's time we give these heroes the recognition they deserve and stop trying to erase their stories. I'm hyped to see more books like this one coming out!