There are two areas to ensure the well being and combat effectiveness of the armed forces, Shelton explained. They are professional development and creating an atmosphere of respect and trust. If we want women to succeed at higher levels of command, then we've got to let them earn their spurs early in their careers and challenge them at every opportunity. The services must continue to emphasize the professional development of women and select women for more visible leadership roles. Fully integrating women into operations such as Bosnia are all positive steps in creating the respect each service member deserves, he said.
Operational expertise is the foundation of professional development.
Shelton said recent incidents may have damaged the military's value system, but he maintains his confidence in the services. I think the services are moving out smartly on the right track, and I'm encouraged by what I see. Army Gen. Henry H. Shelton, chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, shares his views on women in the military at the Defense Advisory Committee on Women the Services Conference April 24.