National Service, Minus Women

National Service, minus women.
by
Robin Hall


Rant<
It is my firm belief that women should be required to sign up for front line military service, just like men. Only then will they rise to the position of first class citizens and be able to demand all rights due US citizens. Only then will women BE equal, in my opinion. Men die in war. Women should too.

In no way is what I am suggesting here meant to diminish the fine service of women in our history. Their own call to duty has seen female volunteers working in MASH units; as police officers; a few have fought fires and several are qualified to fly our most complicated military airplanes. I am sure many women have worked as spies in our world wars. Their services for this will likely remain secret.

Consider this. Only one woman in history has won our country's highest military award, The Congressional Medal of Honor.
Mary Edwards Walker, MD She served as a doctor in our Civil War, often treating soldiers behind enemy lines. Yet today, this heroic service might not earn her this highest award.

"To be awarded a Medal today the individual must be in combat as a member of the Armed Forces of the United States. The act of bravery must be: 1) proved by incontestable evidence of at least two eyewitnesses; 2) clearly distinguishes gallantry beyond the call of duty; 3) involve the risk of life. Today the Medal of Honor stands at the top of a pyramid of awards, reserved for the bravest of the brave."

I suggest it is time women's service to our country be on the same level as that of men. Require all citizens to register for the draft and then put to rest the notion of second class citizens and the need for women's rights groups.

Women, take note of the sacrifices the men are required to register for. Only when the laws allow for all citizens to register for front line service will women be able to claim their just rewards in society.

Men, understand that the so-called glass ceiling in the workplace can and should shatter when front line serving females return from combat, battle-trained to do just the sort of work needed in today's frenzied workplace.