h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

http://www.guardian.co.uk/military/story/0,,1783130,00.html

all I can say is

no sh*t Sherlock!

I agree with you Sho

It's a case of 'Is the Pope Catholic'

basically, when I joined up (being an Army brat) I knew what I was going into. And I was 19 when I joined, which gave me a bit of an experience advantage.

I was even warned by the recruiting chappies, because I went into a predominently male trade.

But having said that... I was actually shocked on several occasions, and on at least one I had a very close shave which was saved by someone either saying something or someone turning up and "rescuing" me.

It's one of the reasons I don't want the gruesomes to join up. If my dad had been more aware of how it was/is for lady soldiers (he was in the cavalry, I think he must have met only one or two at work) he really would have tried to dissuade me. Not that I would have listened, of course

And I know, with a sinking heart, what happens to women who complain. Especially those who complain sucessfully.

In the end it was mostly the sexism (not the harassment, that stopped pretty much when I joined the Intelligence Corps) which made me leave - and I regret it even now because it truly was my dream job.

I think it's the same for any woman in a male dominated job, I've been in many a kitchen where I've been the only woman and I've been the subject of many a 'Prank', for the want of a better word, you either have to grow your own set of balls or run away screaming. I agree things can get out of hand but surely women must know that these kind of things are going to happen

oh yes, lady are horribly treated, from what I hear

mind you,would you be nasty to someone who may or may not have PMT and access to lots of sharp, pointy things?

Only sensible s know when to lay off

sensible ?

I know it's a contridiction in terms but you know what I mean