I fixed a couple of spelling errors, over all well written. I would cover more on the female has same abilities as male angle. Not so much on the benefits of military service. i.e. Same strengths, intelligence, ability to endure hardships
I am writing in regards to the Point/Counterpoint section of the November issue concerning women in the military. First of all, both of the articles were by males. You should have included a female standpoint considering the subject concerns women. Second of all, neither of the authors seemed to have very much knowledge on the military.
In the argument for drafting women, everything the author stated was basically general knowledge that anyone could have come up with off the top of their head. He did not make a good argument as to why women should be drafted as well as men.
Now, on to the subject of “Women should stay home.” Here’s my favorite quote from the article: “Too much controversy is created when women are involved in a thing that has been occupied by men for hundreds of centuries.” EXCUSE ME? Are you saying that women should not hold jobs? Maybe women shouldn’t vote either, or go to college? Maybe women shouldn’t play sports! Why don’t we just wear veils over our faces and long gowns that cover our ankles?
I’m assuming this article is about women in the military in general since a draft was never mentioned. If a woman wants to serve her country in the armed forces, there is no reason she should be restricted from doing so. It’s called freedom and equal rights. It’s all about pride. June 26, 2001 was the proudest day of my life thus far. It was the day I enlisted in the United States Navy. I feel that pride every day. You wouldn’t believe how many hand shakes I’ve received from people I don’t even know that have heard I’m enlisted, or how many times I’ve heard, “Wow, I’d never have the guts to do that!” from a guy. It’s a great feeling.
It’s also a great opportunity for any gender. Depending on the contract you choose you can travel the country or even the whole world. The Montgomery G.I. Bill will help you pay for a majority of your college expenses after you are out of the military, and if you go to a UW college, the state of Wisconsin will pay for whatever the G.I. Bill doesn’t cover. That’s a free ride to college. Also, housing is provided. Everything you could possibly need is on base so you don’t need a car, therefore you don’t need gas. Food is provided. Medical and dental care is free. How many jobs do you know you could get just out of high school that start out at over $1000/ month? Women should not be kept from this opportunity.
Back to the article, the author stated that it would be good to see men voluntarily sign up instead of having both recruited. No one is forced to join. Every member of the current military signed their contract at their own will. The recruiter didn’t find me, I found him.
In conclusion, the next time these two “journalists” write a piece on something they aren’t very informed about, I would suggest they do a significant amount or research. Also, the next time a topic is gender-related, get input from someone of that sex.
In a re-stated conclusion, if you love your women, let them make their own decisions
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