Rescinding the Ground Combat Exclusion Policy

Abstract

In its March 2011 final report to Congress and the President, the Military Leadership Diversity Commission (MLDC) recommended the elimination of the ground combat exclusion policy (GCEP), a recommendation that has both legal and readiness ramifications. From a legal perspective, it could change the way that the U.S. Supreme Court interprets the application of the Due Process and Equal Protection clauses of the Constitution to selective service registration. It also has implications for the forced assignment of enlistees into combat arms specialties. From a readiness perspective, rescinding the GCEP has potential negative effects relating to differences in physical strength and effects on unit cohesion, but also has the potential to improve readiness by increasing the talent pool for recruiting and assignments, allowing for more efficient and flexible operations, and increasing morale. This paper seeks to assess the potential implementation of the MLDC's recommendation in terms of the best interests of the U.S. military.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 07, 2011
Accession Number
ADA600854

Entities

People

  • Riley W. Murdock

Organizations

  • Marine Corps University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Ground and Sea Platforms
  • Human Systems
  • Materials and Manufacturing Processes

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Artillery
  • Congress
  • Department Of Defense
  • Employment
  • Enlisted Personnel
  • Governments
  • Law
  • Military Personnel
  • Military Science
  • New York
  • Personnel Management
  • Recruits
  • Students
  • Supreme Court
  • United States
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare

Readers

  • Government and Public Administration Law.
  • Military Leadership and Professional Education.
  • Naval Personnel Management