Your recent, varied articles and editorials regarding co-ed training of Navy and military personnel was really good reporting. The Tribune rightfully does not take a stand on the subject.
The United States Marines train their male and female recruits separately. The corps recognizes that boot camp is designed to offer a slow transition from civilian life to military life. By removing the all-too-often adolescent trauma of forcing young people into “unusual” collective roles, it gives the recruits the opportunity to learn and adapt to a new environment. Going from civilian to military life is a real cultural shock for anyone.
The current bent in Congress is to make male and female recruits equal in all situations. This attitude is reflected in recent speeches by politicians and certain bureaucrats who, for the most part, have never served their country in uniform. One such person, Defense Secretary William Cohen, has little or no understanding of what the personal sacrifices made at such a young age can mean to a “boot.” He has never served his country in uniform, and his attitude reflects that which is learned only through literature, committees and political tomfoolery. It reflects a complete disregard for the young people whom we depend upon to uphold the best traditions of the military services and the defense of our country.
Our young women and young men are entitled to a period of adjustment. Whether it’s nine weeks or 13 weeks, they deserve a chance to put their best foot forward in an environment that is beneficial to the country and to the recruits’ newly chosen profession–separate boot training with co-ed advanced training.
It is sad that the few members of our Congress with military experience have not stepped forward on this very sensitive subject. Maybe they’re now too old and can’t remember!
