Two lawmakers think military leadership should reflect the demographics of the country it serves. Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) and Ben Cardin (D-Md.) have introduced legislation that would require the Secretary of Defense to develop benchmarks for hiring and promoting women and minorities.

Cardin cited a 2011 Defense report that said women and minorities were under-represented in military leadership. The bill also addresses on concerns raised by service members at a recent forum, he said.

"It is important that more progress be made on the recommendations of the Military Leadership Diversity Commission, including steps to increase transparency in the promotion process for leadership positions," said Senator Cardin.

The MDLC also called for a broader definition of diversity, including different backgrounds, skill sets and other personal attributes.

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