DoD’s Transgender Entrance Policy Exists for a Reason
.
By Thomas Spoehr
July 11, 2020
Service in the U.S. armed forces is a privilege open to those who meet the established standards without special accommodation.
As long as there have been armies, there have been military entrance criteria. For example, in the Civil War, recruits had to have a sufficient number of teeth to be able to tear open paper rifle musket cartridges. Today because of the needs and sophistication of the U.S. military, the requirements are lengthier and more complex.
Unfortunately, for a variety of reasons, around 71 percent of young Americans are unable to meet the entrance criteria for today’s volunteer force. Some are ineligible due to educational or legal issues, but most of the reasons pertain to health. A shocking 27 percent of young Americans are too overweight to serve. Another 32 percent have other disqualifying conditions such as asthma, poor eyesight, mental health issues, or shoulder issues. Individuals who need constant medication or follow-on treatment to deal with ongoing medical issues are also ineligible.
https://www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2020/07/11/dods_transgender_entrance_policy_exists_for_a_reason_115459.html
