SECNAV's comments regarding the study have been embarrassing. If he had issues with the methodology of the report, he should have fixed it before the study concluded. Now he just looks foolish trying to explain his position contrary to the evidence. Evidence that the USMC, an organization in his department, has spent significant time and energy gathering.
Well, he's right. "..[the study says that] because women get injured more frequently, that over time women will break down more. That you will begin to lose your combat effectiveness over time. That was not shown in this study." Sure. I'd say you lose your combat effectiveness
immediately when any member, male or female, meds down.
My only issue with this study is that I wish they'd been more strict with personnel coming and going from the units. Not sure how they'd fix that, but it's a variable that muddies the water a little. Otherwise, BZ to the Marines, who seem to have gone all in for this study. After reading the summary of results, I'm pretty surprised at how categorically and significantly integration detracts.