It was on March 17 when I watched the proceedings of a committee discussion on Channel 15 regarding military gender integration. It was interesting, and almost amusing, had the subject debated not have been such a serious one.
The chairman of the discussion was well in control of the debate. The participants demonstrated great self-control.Not represented were the women serving in the U.S. armed forces. Discussed and debated was the possibility of gender integration in all sections and phases of military duties and scenarios. No resolutions were suggested nor agreements reached.
I am of the opinion that gender integration should not become part of our military units. The question is not whether women in the armed forces could serve well. It is, rather, whether it can be advocated, both ethically and morally, to order women to the front to kill other humans.
The mission of the feminine gender is to give and protect life, not to destroy life. There are enough men in our country to fight a war, when needed. Moreover, both men and women should be carefully interrogated as to whether or not they would favor gender integration before a decision should be made by Congress or any other political institution.
Gender integration would not only be a great mistake, it would be a disgrace to the women and men of our nation. It might also be considered a political maneuver to gain votes in future elections. Women who wish to join the forces should be enlightened regarding its dangers and consequences before they do so. We need no Amazons. There are many other organizations in our great country where women can serve honorably and successfully. Please, let's forget about military gender integration within the U.S. forces.
John A. Dahl
Salt Lake City