[Kevin Curry]

If she grew up in the country around guns and knew how to hunt, I can see her doing this. I know some women who are as gritty and cold-blooded as any man, very adept at handling firearms, and more than able and willing to empty a magazine at another human being if the circumstances warranted it. But they are very much the exception, and in each case they grew up steeped in a country, horses, and gun culture. They do not make a good argument to place women generally in front-line combat roles.

It seems to me PFC Lynch was in a proper role as a supply clerk. If she did fight in the manner suggested, I applaud her courage and grit. I just hope no one takes her circumstances and tries to make them into a broader rationale for dropping the restriction on women in front-line combat roles.

[Destro]

I agree--and on this point I just hope no one takes her circumstances and tries to make them into a broader rationale for dropping the restriction on women in front-line combat roles.

Sadly, you know it's coming...

[HairOfTheDog]

I know some women who are as gritty and cold-blooded as any man, very adept at handling firearms, and more than able and willing to empty a magazine at another human being if the circumstances warranted it. But they are very much the exception, and in each case they grew up steeped in a country, horses, and gun culture.

And the women who even desire to join the military are also typically the same exceptions. No one is arguing that all women are good for all roles in the military. But I would argue that some are good enough to make us proud in the roles they can do. That's all.

Good night thread.

[jmc813]

It seems to me PFC Lynch was in a proper role as a supply clerk. If she did fight in the manner suggested, I applaud her courage and grit. I just hope no one takes her circumstances and tries to make them into a broader rationale for dropping the restriction on women in front-line combat roles.

Agree 100%. As I've mentioned here on FR a few times, I served in an Army MI unit with a female 1st Sgt. She was one of the best leaders I ever dealt with during my time in.

Yes, putting women in infantry positions on the front lines is ludicris, but keeping women out of the military altogether (which I have seen more than a few FReepers advocate) is equally ludicris.

[Ford Fairlane]

If she grew up in the country around guns and knew how to hunt, I can see her doing this

My buddies from W. VA all hunt deer with M1 Carbines & usually make 1st shot kills - hard to do with an M1

If she is from that crowd she knows how to place her shots accurately

[ApesForEvolution]

All of Iraq is a front line combat role today. She was in Iraq. ??

[twigs]

If she grew up in the country around guns and knew how to hunt, I can see her doing this.

Have you seen her family on TV? They're the quiet, unassuming quiet type--and tough as nails! They're what made this country what it is today, by the grace of God! Her mom said that Jessica would probably return to her unit--she was no quiter. Good, tough people. Jessica walks proudly in their footsteps.