Leaked report exposes burnout, racist remarks among Alaska troops

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
28 Sep 2023 08:41

A leaked report has revealed significant challenges faced by military personnel in Alaska, encompassing issues like sexist and racist behavior, including catcalling, unwanted physical contact, and exposure to racist remarks.

A helicopter from the 52nd Aviation Regiment lands on Kahiltna Glacier near Denali, Alaska (AP)

A review conducted by an Army Cohesion Assistance Team (CAT) identified problems within the recently designated 11th Airborne Division, which included issues such as sexism, racist jokes, and alcohol consumption. The review also noted challenges related to resource shortages and a high workload.

Acknowledging the distinction of the armed forces, the US Army recently changed the name of the troops stationed in Alaska to the 11th Airborne Division. However, a report leaked to Reddit's Army forum has unveiled numerous challenges encountered by military personnel in the northern state.

The report, which was based on interviews and surveys with soldiers, highlighted problems such as sexist and racist conduct. Among the service members interviewed, 5% reported experiencing catcalling in the preceding two weeks, 6% reported unwanted physical contact, and 16% reported hearing racist remarks directed at them or fellow soldiers.

The report also highlighted heavy drinking as a concern, potentially exacerbated by the low temperatures, short daylight hours, and remote locations in Alaska.

The leaked report also mentioned the presence of outdated facilities and equipment, which were occasionally lacking. Furthermore, the soldiers' workload was considered a significant issue, given that US troops across the military have experienced an increased operational tempo since the commencement of Russia's special military operation in Ukraine.

To address the problem of soldier suicides, an additional allocation of resources known as "Mission 100" was recently approved. However, there were apprehensions about the sustainability of the enhancements brought about by this initiative.

Last May, the US Department of Defense sent an emergency "surge" of doctors, psychiatrists, religious chaplains, and other mental health experts to military bases in Alaska to tackle the rapid rise in suicides there.

In 2021, at least 11 soldiers committed suicide in Alaska, with another six deaths still being investigated. According to the military.com website, seven soldiers committed suicide in 2020, eight in 2019, and three in 2018.