Stanford University Mulls Return Of ROTC

PALO ALTO, Calif. (AP) -- Stanford University is mulling the return of the U.S. military's Reserve Officers' Training Corps program after nearly 40 years.

   A faculty committee has sponsored meetings over the past few weeks for students and professors to discuss bringing back ROTC.

   The program was barred from campus in 1973 amid strong anti-war sentiments and anger over the military's ban on gays and lesbians.

   But the San Jose Mercury News reports that some students' views of the armed services have changed, especially since Sept. 11 and the repeal of "don't ask, don't tell."

   Opponents say military coursework undermines the university's academic independence. Supporters say future national leaders should appreciate and share the burdens of national defense.

   The faculty committee is expected to make a recommendation in May.