Women being allowed in the infantry is an incredibly hot topic, especially in the Marine Corps. People from all perspectives of the issue are divided, ranging from outrage to full support. And the controversy is just getting started.
The first two female Marines have been accepted into the infantry, which marks the first women ever to hold combat positions. One will be a machine gunner, the other rifleman; both women requested the positions. Two female officers will also be placed in the same unit for at least 90 days, as following protocol. Once they hit the unit, further research will be conducted to track their progress within the infantry.
It was released in December that all women in the military will be able to serve in any combat position that a man can hold in any branch. Since then, tension has risen within the military community.
Many of the male grunts feel that this will disrupt the brotherhood of the troops and will bring about heightened sexual assaults, as well as claims of harassment. Along with the morale complaints come physical concerns. 29 women have attempted and failed the Infantry Officer Course, which arguably supports the concern. Some say women physically struggle with the incredibly heavy sacks that infantrymen must carry on long hikes.
On the other side of the controversy, many are rooting for the women to break down the barriers within the military. Some see women fighting alongside men as the ultimate expression of badass girl power and gender equality. It has been argued that the training standards for combat positions shouldn't be lowered for women because there are women who are indeed strong enough to keep up with the men.
As for my personal opinion, I'm mixed. I see from my boyfriend's perspective (who is in the infantry himself), and as he is concerned not only for the sake of his unit's morale, but also for the welfare of the Corps entirely. And granted, I am a civilian who myself am not personally experienced in the military, so I might not have the most concrete opinion. However, as a woman, a part of me is inclined to feel a little proud and excited. For better or worse, women are stepping up to the plate and are ready to fight for their country, and I personally think that is awesome. I do not believe standards or expectations should be lowered to ease women in. I think there are in fact female individuals that have the strength and heart to persevere and succeed alongside their male counterparts.
No matter how you feel about the issue, this is an important controversy in our country, and despite the disputes of morals and logistics of it, it's history in the making.
