From the American Revolution on, women have served in support roles for the army, but they weren't accepted into active combat until after the Vietnam War. So by the time of the Iraq War, they'd only been in the army for thirty years. (Source)
The women in Sunrise Over Fallujah are (for the most part) good soldiers—sometimes tougher than the men around them. But there aren't that many of them compared to men, and they're in an army that is still learning to adjust to them. Plus, they're soldiers in a country where women's roles are much more limited.
What does that add up to? All sorts of casual sexism.
Questions About Gender
- Why do you think Rose refers to the entire unit by calling them "men?"
- If he could be the one making the decision, do you think Birdy would allow women into active duty?
- Why is Miller angry that women are purposely sent on Civil Affairs missions to villages?
- When Jonesy defends women to Harris, what does that reveal about his character?
Chew on This
The women in Sunrise Over Fallujah represent a minority of the military but prove to be strong enough to hold their ground against their male companions.
Sunrise Over Fallujah reveals deeply-rooted sexism still present in modern day, particularly through Birdy's well-meant but misguided perception of women.