Success never comes all at once. You have to work for it, achieving your life's small and immediate goals while reaching for the stars with the help of the divine. Markeith L. Porter's life exemplifies this combination of hard work and faith. From his birth in a trash bag outside his grandmother's house to his service in the US Navy, Porter describes the events that molded him from a child into a Christian, sailor, professional, and man. Scriptural passages intersperse his short, often poignant, reminiscences, reinforcing the morals taught by each memory. This is the story of a man whose leadership skills shaped his life and worldview. Porter's experiences offer a yardstick against which young people can measure their own development and find direction to assist in shaping their life. Chief among Porter's ideals is the notion of the humble hawk-combining the keen intellect and awareness of the hawk with a meek, respectful nature. Unlike the bully, who lashes out at anything, the humble hawk constantly assesses situations, judging the best time to intercept and engage with others. Lighthearted but informative, Don't Drown Black Boy chronicles a life well lived in service to family, country, and God.