Hundreds of women have proven their competence and were awarded for their heroism during the nation’s longest war in Iraq and Afghanistan, advocates said.

Summary

Female veterans and service members are condemning Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth’s comments opposing women in combat roles, calling them outdated and harmful.

Hegseth claimed women in combat complicate military effectiveness, despite decades of evidence proving their competence, including service in Iraq and Afghanistan, where over 300,000 women served, with 179 killed and over 1,000 wounded.

Critics, including Sen. Tammy Duckworth, a Purple Heart recipient, argue Hegseth’s views ignore the realities of modern warfare.

His nomination has sparked backlash, further amplified by past allegations of sexual misconduct.

  • homura1650@lemmy.world
    4·
    5 days ago

    So. The secretary of defense is not an elected position. Most people in the country don’t even know who currently holds the role.

    The opinion of those he leads and works with is much more important.

    • eatthecake@lemmy.world
      2·
      5 days ago

      The opinion of who leads the country and his voters are more important. It’s like the west trying to install democracy and progress in afghanistan. The locals aren’t having it.