[trisham]

Harassment exists in civilian life as well. It is not unique to the military. I know, because I've experienced it, and have seen it happen to others.

What I and some others are saying is that Benedict is exaggerating and possibly outright lying about the degree to which this kind of thing happens in the military.

[My hearts in London - Everett]

I agree that she is probably lying about the degree that sexual assault or rape happens. And, while harassment happens in civilian life as well, it is more difficult to deal with in the military. You can't quit and look for a new job. You speak out and you have to deal with the negative and career damaging consequences of that. The best you can do is try to ignore it and keep yourself safe until you rotate to your next command ~ to begin dealing with the same thing, different people all over again. I think a rampant atmosphere of ignored harassment can encourage false reporting of more serious charges. I know harassment can be difficult to deal with. The people who participate in it are sly and careful of who their audience is.

Regarding another point made, my daughters haven't yet ever reported to me being sexually harassed by any homosexual female shipmates. Their female shipmates do routinely courage and spread rumors about female sailors who don't date sailors or sleep around, thus encouraging male sailors to try prove or disprove the rumor.