Here's my take.
The military is nothing more than a microcosm of the US on whole. Granted it's not all elected, with the stuffings and nonsense involved -- it's merit based (not the Thai style, rather based on what you've accomplished.) No shortage of blacks, Asians, Jews, Hindus in the highest ranks.
We promoted a black to the highest military post who was subsequently launched to the Secretary of State. Roundly thought to be the third highest position in the US hierarchy. How many years ago was that? And he was a real black man!
Previously, every other black presidential candidate has been little more than a chuckle. I honestly think that Powell's respect as SecState (as a black man) set the stage for a black president someday. I know the UN speech detractors (nay the supporters, nay the naysayers, fuck, I'm confused) I recall thinking that he was a no-shit possibility when he was appointed.
This whole race issue in pres elections has not taken me by storm or surprise -- at all. I've thought since the late 90s America might have a black president someday. Perhaps it's because the military is mostly colorblind. Perhaps it's because I don't see inherent virtue or flaws in commanders of various colors.
I've served under commanders practicing the Muslim faith, Blacks, Asians ... I just can't see America basing it's decision in 2008 on color or religion.
The truth is America is almost 80 percent white. If a half-white guy can win. He's convinced a whole bunch of people he's interested in their well being.
Why has the term mullato never appeared in the past two years of Teak Door? Barrack Obama is the perfect black candidate. Because he's not.