A major part of this course is keeping the purpose of the Navy's existence in our sights. We must understand that everything we do is to make that forward presence the most capable, combat- ready force possible. The discussion was an example of how today's Navy leadership views the relationship between the wardroom and chief's mess, according to Master Chief Herdt. Their initiatives and recommendations have led to helping women make great strides towards full integration in the military, while improving living conditions and benefits along the way. Our title suggests that we look at women in the services and that's really what our goal is.
Women are still a minority in the services.
We are just under 15 percent of the total force. We need to look at issues that are specific to them. However, by addressing those issues that have a direct effect on women, we're also helping the men. So if we can improve life for women, in a ripple effect, we will improve life for men as well. They are divided by rank as well as by gender.