Females in Direct Combat Roles
Abstract
Females in direct combat roles such as Infantry, would disrupt overall combat effectiveness. The subject of females in direct combat roles has long been a heated topic of debate and continues to distress soldiers today. Females serving in combat infantry units would disrupt combat effectiveness primarily due to the extreme physical demands and interpersonal relations with their male counterparts. Though many disagree, arguing that females would have no impact on combat effectiveness and could do the job just as well. The physical demands of an infantry soldier are extreme and grueling. The basic combat load of a rifleman averages 40 to 50 pounds for the rucksack and 30 pounds for the load-bearing vest. In some cases, such as the 240 gunner, or assistant gunner, that weight can almost double. The physical make up of the average female cannot support carrying that much weight for any length of time. The rifleman may need to conduct a movement over rough terrain for long distances with heavy loads to make it to the objective. If the weight cannot be supported, the mission cannot be completed thus compromising combat effectiveness.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 03, 2005
- Accession Number
- AD1117189
Entities
People
- Thomas K. Sparks
Organizations
- United States Army Sergeants Major Academy