[discostu]

As you point out the data is not conclusive. On top of that it's not conclusive that a protective feeling would impeed their ability to function as soldiers. One of the things that marks the American fighting man as very different than the rest of the world is the lengths we will go to to rescue a downed man, including losing numerous men in the process (from a strategic stand-point not smart, from a morale stand-point very smart). We hold protective feeling toward all our soldiers, I don't see it being any different if some of them are women.

[CyberCowboy777]

As I said

I am not willing to take chances with the lives of soldiers, my kids or you.

Unless there is a reason that we HAVE to have women in forward positions why add the RISK.

No sane person would put an unnecessary variable into the mix when life and country are on the line.

[CyberCowboy777]

You are mixing protective instincts and loyalties.

Very different - both can be encouraged, neither removed.

There is also an issue with the mentality of women - though not all - they do not react to stress, pain or loyalties the same. How do you test for that?

I am not going to add a unknown variable to the mix when Life and Country are on the line. No matter how bad that make you or any other person FEEL! It is not necessary.