From Cautious to Conscious Inclusion

Abstract

It was not until only recently (2015) that all combat positions have been opened to all genders and theoretically based upon gender-neutral capabilities rather than someone’s biological sex at birth. Today, women’s participation in the Special Operations forces demonstrate the perpetuation of the myth of female distraction and a pressing need to confront it. This chapter provides a historical overview of women’s integration into military roles, including realities of service during America’s recent longest wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. It evaluates the most pressing concerns facing a society where women may soon be drafted to fight the nation’s wars. While policy has moved from an era of cautious inclusion to one of conscious inclusion of women in military roles, it is necessary to address the pragmatic policy considerations of accommodating physical strength differences with adaptive technology and preventing and responding to military sexual trauma, rather than dwelling on antiquated stereotypes.