“Masculinity, Whiteness, and the Warrior Hero

Full Answer Section

        These intersecting factors likely exacerbated the challenges they faced during Operation Iraqi Freedom. How does this article support or contradict concepts about the role of women in nation building? The article supports the concept that women can play a vital role in nation building. The authors argue that women can bring unique perspectives and skills to the task of nation building. For example, women are often more likely to build relationships with local communities, which can be essential for success in nation building. How is military service by women connected (or not) to sex and gendered roles in society? Military service by women can challenge traditional sex and gendered roles in society. When women serve in the military, they are demonstrating that they are capable of doing jobs that are traditionally considered to be male-dominated. This can help to break down stereotypes about women and their capabilities. Does military service make women less vulnerable during conflict? Military service does not make women less vulnerable during conflict. In fact, women in the military may be more vulnerable to certain types of violence, such as sexual assault. Does the “women as victim” concept diminish the role women in conflict? The “women as victim” concept can diminish the role of women in conflict. When women are portrayed as victims, it ignores the many ways in which women contribute to conflict resolution and peacebuilding. How can the military better integrate women in the military in the future operating environment? The military can better integrate women in the military in the future operating environment by:

• Recognizing difference: The military should recognize that women are not a monolithic group. Women have diverse experiences and perspectives.
• Checking privilege: The military should check its own privilege when it comes to gender. The military should be aware of the ways in which traditional sex and gender roles can disadvantage women.
• Listening and learning: The military should listen to and learn from women. The military should seek out feedback from women on how to improve the integration of women in the military.
• Making space: The military should make space for women in leadership positions. The military should also make sure that there are opportunities for women to develop their careers.
• Watching language: The military should watch its language when it comes to women. The military should avoid using language that is sexist or discriminatory.
• Analyzing the space they occupy and show up: The military should analyze the space it occupies and show up in a way that is inclusive of women. This means creating a culture where women feel respected and valued.

Additional thoughts In addition to the methods of practicing intersectionality listed above, the military can also better integrate women in the future operating environment by:

• Providing training on gender sensitivity and unconscious bias: All military personnel should receive training on gender sensitivity and unconscious bias. This training can help to raise awareness of the challenges faced by women in the military and the ways in which to mitigate those challenges.
• Creating a culture of support for women: The military should create a culture of support for women. This means ensuring that women have access to mentors and role models, and that they feel comfortable speaking up about any concerns they have.
• Tracking progress: The military should track its progress in integrating women. This will help to identify areas where improvement is needed.

The military is becoming increasingly diverse, and it is important to ensure that all members of the military feel included and valued. By taking steps to better integrate women, the military can create a more cohesive and effective force.  

Sample Solution

   

The three military women of the 507th Ordinance Maintenance Company during Operation Iraqi Freedom - Jessica Lynch (Caucasian), Shoshona Johnson (African American), and Lori Piestewa (Native American) - faced a number of intersecting factors, including:

• Gender: As women in a male-dominated institution, they faced discrimination and sexism.
• Race: Johnson and Piestewa faced racism and discrimination due to their race.
• Nationality: Piestewa faced discrimination as a Native American.