Changing mores under the buzz-word "inclusion" is now standing military tradition on its head, with older veterans at least. Acceptance of homosexuals and lesbians in the ranks, pushed by a PC minority, has been coming for some time.
However, sanctioning the wearing of an ADF uniform at such a function, I believe, is a step too far. This madness by some senior officers to parade our defence force as the world's most "inclusive" army is sure to cause guffaws and sniggers throughout the mess halls of most, if not all foreign armies.
Will the next "inclusive" move be toward special rainbow motif uniforms and decorations? How will they camouflage rainbow battle dress? Will morale will be a casualty? I wonder what our recent Victoria Cross recipents think about this?
The Australian Defence Force released a statement saying soldiers, sailors, airmen and airwomen will march in formation at the event.
Although an ADF contingent has participated in the parade for the past five years, they have never been able to wear their uniforms.
"Diversity is a strength and asset for today's employers, and Defence is no exception," an ADF statement said.
"Workplace inclusion for all ADF members is a high priority for the organisation as it undergoes cultural change."
Defence also said diversity handbooks introduced by the Air Force were to be rolled out to the rest of military.
