F.a.o Baldric

[david small]

As an ex Royal Marine I am not over happy with the decision to allow women into the Corp. wether that would include the Commando’s or not I’m not sure. How do feel about this development Baldric?

[andy-hughes]

David - are there any specific reasons for your view?

[Baldric]

I have been watching the situation with interest, there should be no lowering of standards to accommodate Females, The Royal Marines earned their place by being The Best, anything less would be sacrilege imo.

PS, who's David?

[Baldric]

Sorry David, misread.

[david small]

Andy, l concur with Baldric. Chauvinistic maybe in my case a little, but, The Royal Marines are and always have been a fine body of MEN.

[murraymints]

I think very few ladies would pass the stringent strength and fitness/stamina criteria but if they do..good on them....

[Maydup]

The next generation of Royal Marines will be a fine body of people too. Even finer for recognising the abilities of women.

[Baldric]

From Admiral Sir Philip Jones KCB ADC (2016)
// I want to make it absolutely clear that the Royal Marines Commando standard, which has served the Corps and the Nation in peace and war, remains unchanged. Quite simply, anyone who does not meet the standard will not serve in the Royal Marines //

[Sqad]

sqad No1 son was a Royal marine and i concur with the posts of david small and Baldric.
HOWEVER...the SOE W.W.2(Special Operations Executive) required the same physical and mental requirements as for the Royal Marines and chosen with care, women, the right women, could be an advantage.

[david small]

It’s the thin edge of a wedge. Watering down ever so slowly, gradually debasing the corp’s heritage so hard earned.

[andy-hughes]

david - // Watering down ever so slowly, gradually debasing the corp’s heritage so hard earned. //

If, as has been advised, the entry requirements and fitness levels are retained at the current high standards, how can any 'watering down' and 'debasing' occur?