The Role of Women in Combat

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that, when women first entered the American military, they were not intended to play a role in combat but rather to be behind the scenes in non-combat oriented roles, such as purchasing. The author stresses that women in combat in the Iraq war has blurred gender lines and forever changed the face of the American military. The paper states that feminists and supporters of women's rights hail women in combat roles as a necessary step in gaining full equality for women. However, as the paper relates, the research indicates that women in combat in the United States military are still a contentious issue.

From the Paper:

"One situation that might allow women in combat is the formation of all-women units. In these units, many of the criticisms of women in combat could be alleviated. For example, a woman would probably be able to lift or carry another woman to safety, and they would not face harassment or sexual situations from male soldiers in an all-female unit. In addition, an all-female unit would tend to be more understanding about monthly menstruation and other female health issues, which would effectively negate many of the issues that opponents of women in combat often cite."

Sample of Sources Used:

• "Judging the Abilities of Female Soldiers Requires Data." Parameters 31.4 (2001): 139+.
• O'Beirne, Kate. "A New Horror of War: What Kind of Country Sends Its Girls and Mothers into Combat?" National Review 21 Apr. 2003.
• Simons, Anna. "Women in Combat Units: It's Still a Bad Idea." Parameters 31.2 (2001): 89.
• Tyson, Ann Scott. "For Female GIs, Combat Is a Fact." WashingtonPost.com. 2005 3 March 2008. 1-4. <http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/05/12/AR2005051202002.html>
• Wallace, George. "Emasculating the Military: Politically Correct Dictates Are Ever More Being Imposed on Today's Military, Degrading Morale, Discipline, and Combat Effectiveness." The New American 30 May 2005: 21+.

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