Final answer:
The Three R Syndrome perpetuated sexism in the military by reinforcing traditional gender roles and restricting opportunities for women. Women were mostly limited to non-combat and support positions during World War II, and their membership in the armed services was expected to be temporary. These events contributed to the continuation of sexism in the military.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Three R Syndrome, which refers to the ideas of recruitment, relief, and replacement, contributed to sexism in the military by perpetuating traditional gender roles. It reinforced the belief that women were only suited for certain roles, such as clerical or support positions, rather than serving in combat or leadership roles. This restricted opportunities for women in the military and reinforced the idea that their role was secondary to that of men.
For example, during World War II, while many American women joined the armed forces and took on various roles, they were mostly limited to non-combat positions and support roles, such as nurses, clerical workers, or aircraft mechanics. They were not given the same opportunities as men to serve in combat or higher-ranking positions. This disparity in opportunities based on gender perpetuated sexism in the military.
Another historical event that contributed to sexism in the military was the decision to limit female membership in the armed services to the war years. Many people hoped that after the war, women would return to working as civilians for the military rather than as soldiers and sailors within it. This further reinforced traditional gender roles and the belief that women's service was secondary to that of men.