Ed. note: This post is part of the Spotlight on Commerce series highlighting the contributions of Department of Commerce African American Military Veterans during Black History Month.

The 2018 Black History Month theme, “African Americans in Times of War,” provides the framework for many stories related to African American soldiers, sailors, marines, airmen, veterans and civilians. The following is part of a video series created to showcase the diverse stories of some African Americans who served during times of war and now work for the Department of Commerce.

Ray Cohen currently serves as the Deputy Assistant Director for International Operations at the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS). Ray proudly served in the U.S. Air Force as a political military analyst. He joined the military because of his love of country, to obtain a good education and to see the world. Following his time in the Air Force and at the Department of Defense, Ray joined the Commerce team at BIS in November of 2011. As Deputy Assistant Director for International Operations, his major duties include political and military analysis and integration.

Ray views Black History Month as a time to pay homage to those men and women who came before him who paved the way for where he is today.

Watch the full video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HD_2wFqGpAU