Women’s fight for equality has been a long lasting struggle, specifically in the military realm. Though their sense of motivation to fight for their nation was akin to male counterparts, women had never had the chance to combat on the frontlines due to, what many believed, their fragility and innate incapability to serve. The magnitude of World War II required an immense amount of American personnel, leading to the enlistment of women. Initially, the public and Congress were severely opposed to the integration of women into the military (in combat and non combat), claiming that their femininity would be lost and female household roles would dissolve(Yellin 111). With a drive fueled by patriotism, duty, and honor, the military appealed to these …show more content…
About 70% of women assumed traditional “women” jobs in the military bureaucracy (“Women in the Military - WWII: Overview”). Women who wanted to enlist had to meet a list of requirements: being within the 21 to 45 age range, having no dependents, and meeting minimum height and weight requirements. Following these qualifications, female applicants had to pass mandatory aptitude tests, fitness tests, assessments of their abilities and skills, and were required to write an essay describing their motivations to serve. Universal incentives included: patriotism, helping end the war, gain financial stability, adventure, joining friends and family in service, and making the most out of an incredible employment opportunity (Schafer 635).The duties of women in World War II were unlike any other war; at last, they received the opportunity to establish themselves in a male dominated profession. During this war, females, who were inspired by their sense of patriotism and commitment to the war effort, assumed responsibilities that would build the foundation of equating them to their male counterparts in the