Salvation Army Appoints First Black Leader

The Salvation Army in the United States today will install its first black chief executive, reports the Associated Press.

Commissioner Israel L. Gaither, who has risen through the organization’s ranks, said he considers his work a calling that has little to do with his race.

“I’m not here because of my color, and I wouldn’t be here if I thought I was,” Commissioner Gaither said. “I want to serve all men and women. I am aware I can serve as a model to African-Americans, as well as to whites and Hispanics.”

Since 2002, Commissioner Gaither had been working in the Salvation Army’s world headquarters in London, serving in the No. 2 job at the organization.