Such an argument would, of course, require us to assert some measure of traditional, natural gender roles, something the mainline GOP is increasingly unwilling to do. This past May, while (rightly) criticizing the extended lockdown of schools across the country, the official GOP Twitter account bemoaned that “Biden is proving to be a detriment to getting mothers back to work” because “many are staying home to take care of their children.” Many within the GOP appear to buy the mainstream feminist argument that equality means “equity,” and that if women are choosing a more traditional role at home, this is evidence of discrimination. Too many Republicans seem unwilling to assert the significance of a nation where women can choose a more traditional role.

Women should undoubtedly be granted equal opportunity to pursue a career, yet our strength as a nation is not found in the “equity” of our military forces. Furthermore, as important as military preparedness is, our strength is not only found in a strong national defense. The “home front,” rather, represents an important harbinger of our national security and strength. And on the home front, it is women who tend to be the captains, majors, and generals.

My point, of course, is not to disparage the many brave women who have served in the military. No doubt, they have served this country well. Americans are very grateful for their service. But these extraordinary women chose this path. Other women unwilling to make this choice should not be forced into it. And to argue against this, we must ultimately accept that fundamental differences between men and women make the latter generally less fit for military service.