U.S. Marine Corps launches investigation after video of 2 members in blackface surfaces online
Two members of the U.S. Marine Corps are involved in an investigation after a social media post showed the uniformed men in what appears to be blackface.
In a video originally posted to Snapchat by Zach Highfield, who is a member of the Third Marine Aircraft Wing, the two men are seen in face masks and heard making racial remarks.
“Blackface,” one of the Marines is heard saying before the other in the video puts his cap on and salutes the camera. The man who uttered “blackface” is then heard uttering a racial slur.
The video was reposted by a Twitter user, whose identity is not known, where it ended up going viral.
“This behavior is disgusting & racist,” the Twitter user wrote. Others echoed the sentiment in the replies.
As a US Marine veteran I a disgusted. No honor to the corps. To America. Conduct unbecoming of a US Marine
— 🇺🇸Julio Castro🇧🇿 (@nYcFratBro) February 23, 2019
He’s in direct violation of the UCMJ and should face disciplinarian action. Especially since he volunteered to be held to a higher standard than the rest of society.
— realEricP (@leftlane911) February 23, 2019
I had the honor of serving with people from all different backgrounds and was one of the greatest parts of being in the military. We are all brothers and sisters and looked out for one another. I have faith the USMC will bring swift justice.
— David Karr (@Dave24karr) February 23, 2019
A Third Marine Aircraft Wing spokesperson sent the following statement to Yahoo Lifestyle on the incident:
We are aware of the post. An investigation has been initiated to determine the facts and circumstances surrounding the content. Our leaders are committed to maintaining an environment of professionalism, dignity, and respect. 3rd MAW takes all allegations of discriminatory behavior very seriously as they stand in stark contrast of our core values of honor, courage, and commitment and do not reflect the discipline and professionalism of the Marines and Sailors of 3rd MAW.
According to San Diego news station KPBS, Highfield clarified that the face masks were actually charcoal masks used in skin care to clean out facial pores. He reportedly claimed full responsibility.
“It looks a lot worse than it is,” he told the outlet. “We had no intention to offend.”
Yahoo Lifestyle was not able to locate Highfield for comment, nor was it able to identify the other Marine in the video.
Read more from Yahoo Lifestyle:
• Parents fear backlash over daughter’s Black History Month assignment: ‘You don’t dress up as another race’
• Louisiana police officers defend wearing blackface in 1993 for a drug operation
• Student’s blackface photo reportedly under investigation by school: ‘Inappropriate’
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