US Military Women & Abortion

@jands1 (835)
United States
August 9, 2008 2:13pm CST
Though I am no longer a military spouse, I am curious as to what others think about the fact that female USA military personnel, spouses and dependents of service members may not obtain an abortion at any U.S. military medical facility either domestically or abroad. This includes if the female is paying for the abortion with her own money. The exception to this rule is 10 U.S.C. ยง 1093 (b).1 "life, rape or incest". Be aware that a woman who has her health jeopardized by the pregnancy does not qualify under this exception. I would love to hear everyone's thoughts, opinions, etc.
2 responses
Essie119
@Essie119 (673)
• Canada
10 Aug 08
While not being particularly in favour of abortion, I don't understand the control they exert. While I understand that the enlistees sign many releases etc. giving control of their lives over to the powers that be, why do the spouses and dependents fall under that net?
jands1
@jands1 (835)
• United States
10 Aug 08
I'm not sure. I do know that the sponsor is responsible for the actions of their dependents. But...I wish I knew why non-military members, connected to a military member are under this particular ruling.
spalladino
@spalladino (17891)
• United States
9 Aug 08
I don't know for sure but I would imagine that it's due to the fact that military medical facilities are government agencies and the current law doesn't allow government sponsored abortions.
jands1
@jands1 (835)
• United States
10 Aug 08
It has always been against military law for women directly connected to the USA military to get abortions. Regardless of what the laws say regarding legality of abortions for citizens of the USA and visitors. Oddly, even abroad, USA military posts/bases are considered "American soil". Thank you for your response spalladino. :)