New Military Culture

In the last quarter-century, the number of African-Americans and women in the armed forces has skyrocketed. There are more black officers than ever; women now hold scores of military jobs once reserved for men; and President Clinton's “Don't Ask, Don't Tell” policy has given homosexuals official sanction to serve in the military. The changes have subjected the military to what have been called the most significant cultural shocks since President Harry Truman desegregated the military in 1948. The role changes have been accompanied by reports of extremist activity on military bases, a surge in sexual harassment cases and a fierce battle over the right of homosexuals to serve. Some observers are asking whether the military is dealing fairly with minorities, women and gays.