US Army Assignment Policy for Women

The role of women in the armed forces has always been and will probably always be a hotly contested topic. Recent statements by senior civilian and military leaders illustrate the reliance the nation has placed on women in the armed forces. In view of the valuable role women play in the Army and the policies that govern their assignment, this monograph will address the question: Is the Army assignment policy for women relevant in the context of 21st century warfare? Many Americans are familiar with 'Rosie the Riveter' ;, the iconic symbol of women in the wartime workforce during World War II. This further symbolizes the growing role of women in both society and the Army during periods of total war throughout U.S. history. From the early days of serving with the Army, to an institutionalized role with the Armed Forces Integration Act of 1948, and finally full integration with the All-Volunteer Force, the role of women in the Army has greatly increased. Understanding the historical aspect of women in the Army provides useful background information for understanding the ongoing debate. The Army published Army Regulation 600-13, its assignment policy for women, in 1992. The Department of Defense published its policy in 1994. Both policies originated at the end of the Cold War when major combat operations (MCO) thinking predominated in doctrine. Additionally, they were influenced by the MCO victory during Operation Desert Storm. Both policies intend to minimize exposure of women to direct ground combat instead of preventing them from participating in direct ground combat. While similar in wording, the two policies are different in two critical areas. First, the policies have different definitions for direct ground combat. Second, the policies differ on the issue of collocation. The DOD policy permits restrictions on assignment of women where units and positions are doctrinally required to physically collocate and remain with direct ground combat units that are closed to