In response to "How military views female GIs" (letter, April 13): I don’t know how long the writer has been in the military, but I can tell you one thing: The percentage of females who get attacked in a year is alarming.

If the writer knew this, then she would know why we as leaders make sure to take precautions. I can’t even imagine she would think this has anything to do with pregnancies, because there is no way that’s what it is about.

When I went through Kuwait on my first tour, there was a man who, during rocket attack [alerts], would put on his mask and attack women in the showers. That man was never caught. Could you continue working knowing that the person who attacked you is still out there?

Having to look over your shoulder and not being able to sleep, that is what leaders are concerned about. And even with all of the training we get, can she tell me she would be able to fight off more than one man or someone twice her weight?

Being attacked takes something from you that you will never get back. So when she thinks we are more "worried" with pregnancy, she’s wrong.

Is this really demoralizing? Open your eyes: It has been like this forever and will continue to be like this, because of the people who think they have the right to take something from someone else. So, until we can fight for our country without having to worry about someone attacking us, she better find a buddy.

Sgt. Crystal BeelerKandahar, Afghanistan

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