As everyone should be aware, recently the top leadership of the US military was taken somewhat to task for their, to be charitable, somewhat insufficient efforts in dealing with the problem of sexual assault and abuse. And, as has been documented in other stories, they promised to really, really, try and think about possibly doing better.
This isn't a problem confined to the American military (or even militaries in general), of course, but it might be instructive to take note of what American allies are doing regarding the situation within their organizations.
Let us take, for example, the Australian Lieutenant-General David Morrison, Chief of the Army. What kind of mealy-mouthed platitude does he express on the issue, as a result of a recent sex scandal involving male personnel accused of creating porn degrading to women?
Well...
Those who think that it is OK to behave in a way that demeans or exploits their colleagues have no place in this army.
Wait, what? No vaguely worded promises about studying to do something? No falling back on excuses about military readiness? Surely he must agree that if someone is a really, really good soldier, that should be taken into account before one makes a decision a to whether he should be prosecuted, right?
On all operations, female soldiers and officers have proven themselves worthy of the best traditions of the Australian Army. They are vital to us maintaining our capability now and into the future.
If that does not suit you then get out. You may find another employer where your attitude and behaviour is acceptable but I doubt it.
Umm, apparently not.
See one pissed-off senior officer demonstrating real leadership here:
http://media.theage.com.au/...