The document discusses the issue of sexual abuse in the United States military. It notes that approximately four in ten military women experience sexual abuse while enlisted. However, the military has done very little to address this problem and it remains largely underreported. This failure negatively impacts both current service members and veterans. Sexual abuse in the military can cause unique trauma for victims as they are often forced to continue serving alongside their abusers. It is also a leading cause of PTSD in veterans. If not addressed properly, sexual abuse will continue undermining the integrity of the military and deter future enlistment.
The document laments the decline of America from a free, safe, and self-reliant society to one dominated by liberalism and government dependence. It argues that America has lost its way under progressive presidents like Obama and Carter who have weakened national security, expanded government, and undermined conservative values. The author calls on conservatives to take a stand against these trends in order to restore America's former greatness.
This document is the issue 2 2016 publication of The Voice, the official publication of the Utah Fraternal Order of Police. It includes articles on the president's message about upholding liberty and defending the constitution as police officers, updates from various FOP lodges around Utah, information about awards given to child advocates, and stories about fallen officers and their memorials. The publication also explains the meaning behind the FOP star emblem.
This document summarizes an online discussion forum regarding the possibility of attacking Iran. Several members argue strongly against attacking Iran, noting that it could lead to wider war and has not been proven necessary. Others acknowledge Iran's capabilities but hope war can be avoided. One member speculates that a war with Iran could activate sleeper cells in other countries. Overall the discussion expresses skepticism towards military action and hopes for non-violent solutions.
This document provides a history of military sexual trauma and sexualized warfare throughout history. It discusses examples of sexual violence during ancient Roman and Greek times, World Wars I and II, and more recent conflicts like the Vietnam War and Iraq War. It also compares rates of sexual assault between civilian and military populations, finding much higher rates of assault among women in the military. The challenges of reporting and accessing care after an assault in the military system are outlined.
Culligan's Inferno is described as a spiral structure like a drain, with worse sins located farther down. It is divided into 9 circles punishing different types of sinners. Oprah is the guide, chosen as someone trustworthy and powerful. Circles punish the selfish, liars, prejudiced, greedy, cheaters, thieves, murderers, abusers/rapists, and dictators/terrorists with psychological and physical torments fitting their sins.
Masculinity in the American military culture and the occurrence of the rape p...Anne-Lise Vray
This dissertation examines the relationship between masculinity in American military culture and the prevalence of rape through a gender perspective. It argues that the extreme form of emphasized masculinity within the military contributes to a culture that rationalizes and increases the risk of sexual harassment, assault, and rape. The dissertation will analyze how military gender constructions and narratives influence sexual behaviors, such as rape being used to demonstrate power or relieve sexual tension according to gender roles. It will also distinguish between male and female rape in the military, though both are ultimately driven by expectations of masculinity and femininity.
The document laments the decline of America from a free, safe, and self-reliant society to one dominated by liberalism and government dependence. It argues that America has lost its way under progressive presidents like Obama and Carter who have weakened national security, expanded government, and undermined conservative values. The author calls on conservatives to take a stand against these trends in order to restore America's former greatness.
This document is the issue 2 2016 publication of The Voice, the official publication of the Utah Fraternal Order of Police. It includes articles on the president's message about upholding liberty and defending the constitution as police officers, updates from various FOP lodges around Utah, information about awards given to child advocates, and stories about fallen officers and their memorials. The publication also explains the meaning behind the FOP star emblem.
This document summarizes an online discussion forum regarding the possibility of attacking Iran. Several members argue strongly against attacking Iran, noting that it could lead to wider war and has not been proven necessary. Others acknowledge Iran's capabilities but hope war can be avoided. One member speculates that a war with Iran could activate sleeper cells in other countries. Overall the discussion expresses skepticism towards military action and hopes for non-violent solutions.
This document provides a history of military sexual trauma and sexualized warfare throughout history. It discusses examples of sexual violence during ancient Roman and Greek times, World Wars I and II, and more recent conflicts like the Vietnam War and Iraq War. It also compares rates of sexual assault between civilian and military populations, finding much higher rates of assault among women in the military. The challenges of reporting and accessing care after an assault in the military system are outlined.
Culligan's Inferno is described as a spiral structure like a drain, with worse sins located farther down. It is divided into 9 circles punishing different types of sinners. Oprah is the guide, chosen as someone trustworthy and powerful. Circles punish the selfish, liars, prejudiced, greedy, cheaters, thieves, murderers, abusers/rapists, and dictators/terrorists with psychological and physical torments fitting their sins.
Masculinity in the American military culture and the occurrence of the rape p...Anne-Lise Vray
This dissertation examines the relationship between masculinity in American military culture and the prevalence of rape through a gender perspective. It argues that the extreme form of emphasized masculinity within the military contributes to a culture that rationalizes and increases the risk of sexual harassment, assault, and rape. The dissertation will analyze how military gender constructions and narratives influence sexual behaviors, such as rape being used to demonstrate power or relieve sexual tension according to gender roles. It will also distinguish between male and female rape in the military, though both are ultimately driven by expectations of masculinity and femininity.
Honor killings involve the execution of a female family member for perceived misuse of her sexuality, often carried out by male relatives. They most commonly occur in some Islamic communities and countries like Israel, India, Jordan, Turkey, Egypt, and Bangladesh. Women can be killed for things like not following the dress code, trying to escape an arranged marriage, cheating, or dating outside the family. While statistics are difficult to obtain since many are passed off as suicides, it is estimated that between 5,000-10,000 women die in honor killings yearly. Several organizations work to improve conditions for women in areas where honor killings are prevalent.
This document compares violence committed by those who are "pro-choice" and "pro-life" on the abortion issue. It summarizes statistics from the National Abortion Federation that claim over 170,000 incidents of "violence and disruption" by pro-lifers from 1977 to 2009. However, the document argues that the vast majority of these incidents were peaceful picketing or flyers/letters, while actual violence like arsons, bombings and murders were very rare. In contrast, it documents over 1,000 killings from abortion and over 5,500 crimes resulting in injury committed by "pro-choicers," making the pro-life movement the most peaceful of all social movements.
The document summarizes that poverty, lack of opportunity, and systemic inequalities contribute significantly to crime rates, yet the criminal justice system focuses disproportionately on punishing poor and minority individuals. Other threats such as occupational injuries, medical errors, and environmental pollution endanger public health and safety more than street crime but are not treated as criminal matters. The system serves to justify its own existence by defining and pursuing crime in a way that targets the powerless.
The Lie of immigration. Ayman karmal and American Security. Robert Powell
This letter thanks Senator Gordon Smith for his courage on an immigration vote and urges him to address ongoing border security issues. It discusses an individual named Ayman Sulmane Kamal who was intercepted crossing the southern border into Mexico and requests that the Senator look into what happened with this case, as the relevant agencies are being unhelpful. The letter argues that ignoring border security endangers American citizens and enables threats like terrorism. It encourages the Senator to take a stand on these issues in his reelection campaign.
Homicide accounts for only 1-2% of violent crimes but receives significant publicity. Homicide includes murder and non-negligent manslaughter, with murder being the unlawful killing of another person with malice. The majority of homicides are intraracial and involve victims and offenders who know each other, often resulting from arguments that escalate. Firearms, especially handguns, are the most commonly used weapons in homicides. Homicide rates vary based on factors like age, gender, race, and socioeconomic status.
References Michelle Alexander's book, The New Jim Crow, Pfaff's Locked In, the Marshall Project, Vox, Common Justice, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE), and more.
This document discusses three incidents of police brutality against African American men that led to riots. The first was the 1992 beating of Rodney King by LAPD officers, which was caught on video but the officers were acquitted, sparking the LA riots. The second was the 2014 shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, where the officer was not indicted, fueling more riots. The third was the 2009 shooting of Oscar Grant by BART police in Oakland, where the officer was convicted of involuntary manslaughter to minimal outrage. While the riots caused damage, the incidents also galvanized social justice movements like Black Lives Matter seeking police reform and equal treatment of African Americans.
Piers Morgan took over Larry King's CNN spot three years ago but has struggled with declining viewership, including CNN's third-worst ratings in January. Over 100,000 Americans signed a petition to deport Morgan due to his outspoken opinions on American issues like gun control. The document discusses both American and British public opinions on Morgan and whether he or wider issues are to blame for his ratings issues at CNN. It provides perspectives on Morgan's personality, style, and ethics being a poor fit for American audiences and society.
The document summarizes research on various forms of sexual violence and exploitation such as rape, war rape, female genital mutilation, sexual assault, prostitution, human trafficking, and sex tourism. It provides definitions and statistics on the prevalence and impacts of these issues. Specifically, it discusses how rape is used as a weapon of war, the exploitation of over 200,000 "comfort women" by the Imperial Japanese Army during WWII, and the physical and psychological harms of female genital mutilation practices.
The document discusses the growing threat of domestic terrorism in the United States carried out by lone wolf attackers. It argues that easy access to guns, radicalization on the internet, and anti-government sentiments have contributed to homegrown terrorism. Examples given include the Boston Marathon bombing, Fort Hood shooting, and LAX shooting. The author calls for stricter gun control laws and limitations on who can purchase or possess firearms to help address the threat of lone wolf terrorist attacks in America.
This document discusses the history of women in the military, laws regarding women in combat roles, and the potential hazards of women serving in combat. It outlines that historically women were restricted to certain non-combat roles but demands grew for more opportunities. Laws treated male and female service members differently, particularly restricting women from combat. Potential hazards discussed include increased risks of captivity, rape, or hostage situations for women, as well as perceptions of women being less masculine or able to carry wounded or lift heavy machinery.
There is a disproportionately high number of homeless veterans in the US despite government efforts remaining underfunded. To qualify for homeless veteran assistance, one must meet the legal definition of "veteran" and "homeless individual". This definition has expanded in recent years. Researchers categorize homelessness as transitional, episodic, or chronic. Veterans are thought to experience chronic homelessness at higher rates than non-veterans. Causes of veteran homelessness include a lack of affordable housing, mental health issues, and difficulties transferring military skills to civilian jobs. Statistics show veterans represent about 23% of the homeless population despite being only 11% of the overall population.
The document outlines a campaign called "Making Black Lives Matter" aimed at raising awareness of police brutality and injustice faced by black people. It discusses case studies of police killings in the US and the UK. Statistics are presented showing black people, especially young black men, are disproportionately killed by police in the US. The campaign will focus on building trust between communities and police through discussions on reforming police practices and accountability. Social media will be heavily utilized to promote the campaign's messages and follow developments.
This summary provides the key points from the document in 3 sentences:
The document discusses the roots of riots and violence in marginalized communities through analyzing Martin Luther King Jr.'s writings on riots, a news article on police brutality in Baltimore, and themes in Richard Wright's novel Native Son. It argues that slow oppression, poverty, and police brutality build pressure over time that can lead to explosive outbursts of violence and riots. While riots are condemned, the document examines the social conditions and injustices that provoke such responses from disenfranchised groups that feel they have no other means of being heard.
This document summarizes various forms of discrimination and harm experienced by minorities and women in the military. It discusses how racism led to disproportionate rates of discharge for people of color under "Don't Ask Don't Tell". It also outlines high rates of sexual assault and harassment experienced by women in the military. One example discussed is the suspicious death of LaVena Johnson which was initially ruled a suicide but showed signs of assault. The document also argues that experiences like harassment and assault should be considered "invisible combat" but are not officially recognized as such by the VA. It concludes by noting extremely high rates of suicide among female veterans.
The document discusses Ted Bundy, a serial killer who was executed in Florida's electric chair in 1989 for murdering 23 women. It then presents arguments for and against the death penalty. Pros of the death penalty include it deterring other would-be criminals and punishing criminals for their acts. Cons argue it is cruel punishment prohibited by the US Constitution, is applied inconsistently and against minorities, and has led to innocent people being wrongly executed. The document concludes by questioning whether the death penalty will solve problems or kill innocent people if kept in the future.
The quote from Union General Sherman shows a different philosophy from previous Union leaders by advocating for harsher treatment of the South in order to end the war more quickly. Grant takes control of the Union army in the East and employs an aggressive strategy, continuing to push South even after taking heavy losses. Sherman is given control of the Western theater and enacts a policy of total war, burning his way through Georgia and South Carolina to end the rebellion.
Proposal Mr Muscat TrentEsta - Final Edited0012TRENTESTA
This document is a proposal for Europe's first rehabilitation center for women and children affected by domestic violence in Malta. It was written by Anne Agius and submitted to the Maltese government in March 2015. The proposal defines domestic violence, explains the cycle of abuse, and outlines the need for rehabilitation services beyond just crisis shelter. It provides details on Anne's background and qualifications to direct the center. The proposal includes sections on education, statistics on domestic violence, potential premises and budget, and goals for monitoring and evaluation. The overall aim is to establish long-term support services to help break the cycle of abuse and empower survivors.
Public declaration for the abandonment of traditional harmful practices: 20 v...unicefniger
On May 15, twenty villages of the rural area of Makalondi publicly committed to abandon Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), early and forced marriage, abductions, exploitation of children, school dropout and rural exodus.
Honor killings involve the execution of a female family member for perceived misuse of her sexuality, often carried out by male relatives. They most commonly occur in some Islamic communities and countries like Israel, India, Jordan, Turkey, Egypt, and Bangladesh. Women can be killed for things like not following the dress code, trying to escape an arranged marriage, cheating, or dating outside the family. While statistics are difficult to obtain since many are passed off as suicides, it is estimated that between 5,000-10,000 women die in honor killings yearly. Several organizations work to improve conditions for women in areas where honor killings are prevalent.
This document compares violence committed by those who are "pro-choice" and "pro-life" on the abortion issue. It summarizes statistics from the National Abortion Federation that claim over 170,000 incidents of "violence and disruption" by pro-lifers from 1977 to 2009. However, the document argues that the vast majority of these incidents were peaceful picketing or flyers/letters, while actual violence like arsons, bombings and murders were very rare. In contrast, it documents over 1,000 killings from abortion and over 5,500 crimes resulting in injury committed by "pro-choicers," making the pro-life movement the most peaceful of all social movements.
The document summarizes that poverty, lack of opportunity, and systemic inequalities contribute significantly to crime rates, yet the criminal justice system focuses disproportionately on punishing poor and minority individuals. Other threats such as occupational injuries, medical errors, and environmental pollution endanger public health and safety more than street crime but are not treated as criminal matters. The system serves to justify its own existence by defining and pursuing crime in a way that targets the powerless.
The Lie of immigration. Ayman karmal and American Security. Robert Powell
This letter thanks Senator Gordon Smith for his courage on an immigration vote and urges him to address ongoing border security issues. It discusses an individual named Ayman Sulmane Kamal who was intercepted crossing the southern border into Mexico and requests that the Senator look into what happened with this case, as the relevant agencies are being unhelpful. The letter argues that ignoring border security endangers American citizens and enables threats like terrorism. It encourages the Senator to take a stand on these issues in his reelection campaign.
Homicide accounts for only 1-2% of violent crimes but receives significant publicity. Homicide includes murder and non-negligent manslaughter, with murder being the unlawful killing of another person with malice. The majority of homicides are intraracial and involve victims and offenders who know each other, often resulting from arguments that escalate. Firearms, especially handguns, are the most commonly used weapons in homicides. Homicide rates vary based on factors like age, gender, race, and socioeconomic status.
References Michelle Alexander's book, The New Jim Crow, Pfaff's Locked In, the Marshall Project, Vox, Common Justice, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE), and more.
This document discusses three incidents of police brutality against African American men that led to riots. The first was the 1992 beating of Rodney King by LAPD officers, which was caught on video but the officers were acquitted, sparking the LA riots. The second was the 2014 shooting of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, where the officer was not indicted, fueling more riots. The third was the 2009 shooting of Oscar Grant by BART police in Oakland, where the officer was convicted of involuntary manslaughter to minimal outrage. While the riots caused damage, the incidents also galvanized social justice movements like Black Lives Matter seeking police reform and equal treatment of African Americans.
Piers Morgan took over Larry King's CNN spot three years ago but has struggled with declining viewership, including CNN's third-worst ratings in January. Over 100,000 Americans signed a petition to deport Morgan due to his outspoken opinions on American issues like gun control. The document discusses both American and British public opinions on Morgan and whether he or wider issues are to blame for his ratings issues at CNN. It provides perspectives on Morgan's personality, style, and ethics being a poor fit for American audiences and society.
The document summarizes research on various forms of sexual violence and exploitation such as rape, war rape, female genital mutilation, sexual assault, prostitution, human trafficking, and sex tourism. It provides definitions and statistics on the prevalence and impacts of these issues. Specifically, it discusses how rape is used as a weapon of war, the exploitation of over 200,000 "comfort women" by the Imperial Japanese Army during WWII, and the physical and psychological harms of female genital mutilation practices.
The document discusses the growing threat of domestic terrorism in the United States carried out by lone wolf attackers. It argues that easy access to guns, radicalization on the internet, and anti-government sentiments have contributed to homegrown terrorism. Examples given include the Boston Marathon bombing, Fort Hood shooting, and LAX shooting. The author calls for stricter gun control laws and limitations on who can purchase or possess firearms to help address the threat of lone wolf terrorist attacks in America.
This document discusses the history of women in the military, laws regarding women in combat roles, and the potential hazards of women serving in combat. It outlines that historically women were restricted to certain non-combat roles but demands grew for more opportunities. Laws treated male and female service members differently, particularly restricting women from combat. Potential hazards discussed include increased risks of captivity, rape, or hostage situations for women, as well as perceptions of women being less masculine or able to carry wounded or lift heavy machinery.
There is a disproportionately high number of homeless veterans in the US despite government efforts remaining underfunded. To qualify for homeless veteran assistance, one must meet the legal definition of "veteran" and "homeless individual". This definition has expanded in recent years. Researchers categorize homelessness as transitional, episodic, or chronic. Veterans are thought to experience chronic homelessness at higher rates than non-veterans. Causes of veteran homelessness include a lack of affordable housing, mental health issues, and difficulties transferring military skills to civilian jobs. Statistics show veterans represent about 23% of the homeless population despite being only 11% of the overall population.
The document outlines a campaign called "Making Black Lives Matter" aimed at raising awareness of police brutality and injustice faced by black people. It discusses case studies of police killings in the US and the UK. Statistics are presented showing black people, especially young black men, are disproportionately killed by police in the US. The campaign will focus on building trust between communities and police through discussions on reforming police practices and accountability. Social media will be heavily utilized to promote the campaign's messages and follow developments.
This summary provides the key points from the document in 3 sentences:
The document discusses the roots of riots and violence in marginalized communities through analyzing Martin Luther King Jr.'s writings on riots, a news article on police brutality in Baltimore, and themes in Richard Wright's novel Native Son. It argues that slow oppression, poverty, and police brutality build pressure over time that can lead to explosive outbursts of violence and riots. While riots are condemned, the document examines the social conditions and injustices that provoke such responses from disenfranchised groups that feel they have no other means of being heard.
This document summarizes various forms of discrimination and harm experienced by minorities and women in the military. It discusses how racism led to disproportionate rates of discharge for people of color under "Don't Ask Don't Tell". It also outlines high rates of sexual assault and harassment experienced by women in the military. One example discussed is the suspicious death of LaVena Johnson which was initially ruled a suicide but showed signs of assault. The document also argues that experiences like harassment and assault should be considered "invisible combat" but are not officially recognized as such by the VA. It concludes by noting extremely high rates of suicide among female veterans.
The document discusses Ted Bundy, a serial killer who was executed in Florida's electric chair in 1989 for murdering 23 women. It then presents arguments for and against the death penalty. Pros of the death penalty include it deterring other would-be criminals and punishing criminals for their acts. Cons argue it is cruel punishment prohibited by the US Constitution, is applied inconsistently and against minorities, and has led to innocent people being wrongly executed. The document concludes by questioning whether the death penalty will solve problems or kill innocent people if kept in the future.
The quote from Union General Sherman shows a different philosophy from previous Union leaders by advocating for harsher treatment of the South in order to end the war more quickly. Grant takes control of the Union army in the East and employs an aggressive strategy, continuing to push South even after taking heavy losses. Sherman is given control of the Western theater and enacts a policy of total war, burning his way through Georgia and South Carolina to end the rebellion.
Proposal Mr Muscat TrentEsta - Final Edited0012TRENTESTA
This document is a proposal for Europe's first rehabilitation center for women and children affected by domestic violence in Malta. It was written by Anne Agius and submitted to the Maltese government in March 2015. The proposal defines domestic violence, explains the cycle of abuse, and outlines the need for rehabilitation services beyond just crisis shelter. It provides details on Anne's background and qualifications to direct the center. The proposal includes sections on education, statistics on domestic violence, potential premises and budget, and goals for monitoring and evaluation. The overall aim is to establish long-term support services to help break the cycle of abuse and empower survivors.
Public declaration for the abandonment of traditional harmful practices: 20 v...unicefniger
On May 15, twenty villages of the rural area of Makalondi publicly committed to abandon Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), early and forced marriage, abductions, exploitation of children, school dropout and rural exodus.
Natalie conducted research on sexual trauma experienced by women in the military. She learned that sexual violence causes PTSD in victims and is a serious issue, though the military claims to take it seriously. Natalie struggled to keep her emotions separate from the facts. She improved her research skills, including evaluating sources, developing focused questions, and respecting copyright. Overall, the project helped Natalie gain important skills in time management, organization, and using online tools to complete rigorous research.
UNICEF works to enhance children's lives through strategic partnerships and fundraising. It focuses on improving children's well-being and protecting their rights as outlined in the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. UNICEF develops partnerships with corporations, organizations, and donors to advance its mission, raise funds, promote its brand, and catalyze support for children's survival, development, protection, and participation. Partnerships provide mutual benefits, with UNICEF supporting partners' goals and partners helping UNICEF implement programs and raise awareness of children's issues.
This document summarizes the key topics discussed at the 2010 CROA conference on children's rights. It outlines the political context in the UK, including the Conservatives' ratification of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1991. It also lists the questions asked of the government and reviews significant policy developments, the financial context of children's services, and implications of the Human Rights Act and Equality Act for children.
1. Natalie Seman
H World Lit/Comp
Lester/Hamilton
16 April 2012
Sexual Abuse in the Military: Shaping Sheet
Introduction/Initial Slides: Flags of Our Fathers, We Were Soldiers Once and Young, Saving
Private Ryan…All are presentations of the glory and honor encapsulated by the United States
Military. Young people from across the nation hear of the nobility of a US Soldier, and those
close to the soldiers themselves hear of the comradery and brotherhood the military brings. For
years, the military has used recruiting tactics like the most famous “We Want You” posters, and
“Be strong, Army Strong” slogan of today’s generation. In 1968, women were granted the right
to enlist and serve in the armed forces. It was with great pride and a sense of accomplishment
that the female population decided to enlist. Now, nearly half a century later, women still feel
that sense of dignity and pride for what they are signing to do. It didn’t take too much time to
uncover, however, that the real military experience for women was not what they originally
intended. The military is portrayed to be a place of a common cause and sense of unity by
nearly every source of media, so why are they hiding the truth about sexual abuse in the armed
forces?
Thesis: Sexual abuse is a growing issue that should be handled seriously and with appropriate
action because it is a detriment to the integrity of the military, is a growing problem that is
under-publicized, and is affecting veterans at an alarming rate.
2. R? 1: Should the effects of sexual abuse of female soldiers be considered a
detriment to the integrity of the U.S military?
TS: The effects of sexual abuse should be considered a detriment to the U.S military.
CD1: Today, four in ten military women are being sexually abused while enlisted.
C: This is a real issue that the media tends to ignore. Sexual abuse trauma is even categorized as
a form of PTSD, though not many women are willing to seek treatment in fear of losing their
ranks. The fact that this is categorized just like any other military affliction says that the United
States military views sexual abuse as another part of what may happen as part of your duties,
and that this is something out of their control.
C: Upwards of 200,000 women are enlisted on active duty today, that’s 15% of our armed
forces. (Gerdes) The prevalence of this issue is kept so hidden that women are blindsided by the
sexual atrocities they have to face when serving their countries. No one would expect to be
sexually abused in a place of so much prestige.
CD2: By comparison, about 20% of all returning veterans from the current U.S war on Iraq will
come home with some form of PTSD. (Lu) “Sexual violence has been identified as one of the
most common predictors of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).” (Dunleavy/Slowik)
C: The fact that sexual violence in the military is categorized in the same way as PTSD shows
that the attitude of military officials toward this issue is one of inevitability. Officials see this
issue as “part of the job” for female soldiers today, and the figures are getting too large to
control.
3. C: Sexual abuse is something the military can control, unlike PTSD, so there is no reason that
significant measures have not yet been taken to reduce this stat.
CD3: In the 1991 Tailhook Association convention, more than 100 officers sexually assaulted
and harrassed dozens of female soldiers but were never convicted. (Gerdes)
C: When officers of the military are the ones committing these sexual crimes, it becomes clear
that sexual abuse is a large detriment to the honorable name the military has worked hard to
maintain. Officers are said to be prestigous and serving their duties to protect the country’s
name, so why are they not the ones stopping this behaviour?
C: Sexual abuse in the military should be handled by our government, and publicized to the
public. Not only is the integrity of the United States military jeopardized by this, but the traits
that define a soldier are as well.
RQ2: What measures are the military officials taking to put an end to sexual
abuse? Why hasn’t this issue been publicized?
TS: The military has done very little to put a stop on sexual abuse, and it seems as though the
issue is being covered up in the media.
CD1: The Senate voted in 1996 to repeal a law banning abortions at military hospitals overseas.
(Dewar)
4. C: People enlist in the military to serve their country, and uphold the integrity of the nation
they defend. The fact that women are raped overseas protecting a country that won’t protect
them in return is a horrifying reality. Impregnated victims of rape are helpless and without any
consolation. If the military is going to continue to do nothing to stop this issue, abortions should
be provided to those who desire them.
C: With women being so violated in what should be their family unit of trust and dependability,
there is no consolation, not even abortion that is being offered to them. The military is
betraying their enlisted women, and there is nothing they can do to stand up for themselves.
CD2: “Since then, more women have been assigned to ships, and the Navy now takes it for
granted that some 10 percent of them will be in a family way whenever they return from long
cruises. Our admirals, however, are unlikely to admit this publicly, or even to acknowledge that
sex takes place at sea.” (Corry)
C: With 10 percent of the women returning from their duty in the military pregnant, it becomes
clear that our nation is doing very little to stop this. It is difficult and frightening enough to be a
woman in the military; Michele Roscher of the Army Reserve was stationed in Iraq as one of
three women among 130 soldiers. (Dribben, 2)
C: With women being far outnumbered and often times outranked, there is little they can do to
defend themselves when their attackers commit to abusing them.
CD3: In February of 2011, 15 women and 2 men, both active duty and veterans, filed a class-
action suit against the Pentagon The suit claimed that the military failed to properly investigate
5. rapes and sexual assaults. (Dribben, 2) By the anniversary of 9/11 that year, the number of
names on the lawsuit went up by twenty.
C: This shows that not only are females outraged by this spectacle, but veteran males are also
being scarred by the maltreatment they are forced to face in the military.
C: Our nation is lucky to have as many volunteers for the military that we do. It is unjust for us
to take advantage of them and force them to compromise their constitutional rights to defend
us.
RQ3: How does this abuse affect veterans and how is it different from rape in
civilian life?
TS: The effects of rape are not just horrifying on the battlefield; these victims are forced to deal
with the pain of sexual abuse even when they become veterans. Military sexual abuse is very
different from civilian rape because the crime is committed in an extremely volatile
environment, generally by the people who are supposed to protect the victim.
CD1: “The military itself is a microcosm of patriarchal society...If the perpetrator is in the female
soldier’s chain-of-command, she might even be dependent on him for basic necessities.”
(Hoppen, 2)
C: This abuse is much like sexual trauma within a family, because a female soldier often times
depends on her commander for support and survival. That is what makes this so different from
typical cases of rape, and this circumstance causes for a specialized treatment mechanism.
6. C: As a result of these military circumstances, the victim must remain trapped in her plattoon
with the perpetrator, creating a sense of helplessness that can create unique trauma.
CD2: Sexual trauma is one of the most common causes of PTSD. (Slowik/Dunleavy)
C: Not only is this issue a problem on the battlefield, the victims of sexual abuse remain victims
when they integrate into regular society. As a result of PTSD, victims find it difficult to find
normalcy again. Even in the workplace, businesses are tentative to hire a veteran who has a
history of PTSD.
C: In doing nothing, the United States military is doing so much to harm the lives of these
women forever. Since the debates in the early world wars about the legitimacy of PTSD as an
ailment or injury, the illness has been looked down upon. These victims are helpless both on
and off the battlefield.
CD3: Military decided to end policy for military abortions. (Slowik/Dunleavy)
C: This burdens veterans with both the cruelties of war and the tragedy of dealing with an
unwanted child that will always remind them of what they had to endure.
C: An additional result of this is a sense of betrayal forced upon the victim because of how safe
she thought she should feel with her platoon.
Conclusion: The United States military has a growing problem in its ranks. If sexual abuse is not
stopped and taken seriously soon, not only will the integrity of the military be destroyed, but
enlistment figures will go down as people hear about the horror of victimized veterans.