Gender Integration Struggles: Marines' Battle to Communicate with Males in Basic Training

The Marine Corps is gradually integrating basic training at boot camp, but the process has been slow and at times reluctant. While men and women train together in some activities, such as combat and obstacle courses, they remain segregated in smaller platoons. Marine leaders argue that this separation is necessary to mold individuals into a cohesive team, while critics argue that it reinforces the stigma of women being treated differently. The Marine Corps recently deactivated the 4th Marine Recruit Training Battalion, which had been the women's unit since 1986. By 2024, training at both Marine Recruit Depots will be fully integrated.