December 7, 1996

Allegations of rape and sexual harassment involving drill sergeants at Army training bases threaten recruitment effort among women, whom the Army is counting on to fill its ranks; Army takes steps to minimize harm as recruiters nationwide field questions from potential recruits, concerned parents and high-school guidance counselors; photo (M)

Barbara Bissell, the widow of the former Somerset County, N.J., prosecutor who fled from an impending prison sentence and killed himself, was sentenced to 27 months in prison for tax fraud and conspiracy. After the sentencing, Mrs. Bissell spoke bitterly of her husband, Nicholas L. Bissell Jr., for taking his own life. ''He found peace, and now I have to go on,'' she said.

Department of Health and Human Services bars health maintenance organizations and other health plans from limiting what doctors tell Medicare patients about treatment options; says Medicare HMO patients are entitled to all benefits available in the standard Medicare program, including advice on 'medically necessary treatment options'; HMO's serving Medicaid patients will get similar policy; doctors charge that 'gag orders' discourage them from telling patients about treatment options--often expensive options--not covered by the HMO (M)

As Secretary of State, Madeleine K. Albright is expected by those who know her record and her interests to bring new verve to efforts to resolve the difficult problems facing Europe, like violence in the Balkans and the expansion of NATO. But many of the challenges will come in areas like China, the Middle East and the emerging markets of Asia and Latin America, where she has less experience.

Tories Slip Into Minority Prime Minister John Major lost his parliamentary majority and was attacked by members of his party over talks with Europe about a common currency. Page 3. Holiday Shopping's 1st Hits A furry monster that squeals when tickled, a $180 relaxation machine and an ice skater's tale are among the unusual best-selling items this holiday season. Page 35. Harlem Begins to Heal While grief lingers, the climate in Harlem is peaceful by contrast to a year ago, when an arson fire in a store killed eight people and stirred cries of greed and racism. Page 25.