Does anyone have any tips for a future female Infantry officer?

2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 May 2018 20:53:05 -0400

Do not include “don’t do it”, I don’t want to hear it.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made May 23 at 2018 9:26 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Wed, 23 May 2018 21:26:26 -0400

Lead by example, understand and execute tactics, develop an SOP, take care of soldiers, listen to NCOs, do well on extra duties, and find a way to have fun.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2018 9:29 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 May 2018 21:29:16 -0400

2LT Private RallyPoint Member know your principles of patrolling and troop leading procedures for starters. Depending on what type of infantry unit you are with their is strong encouragement in understanding area defence.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2018 9:30 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 May 2018 21:30:25 -0400

2LT Private RallyPoint Member I strongly reccomend you buy the smart handbook for small unit tactics read that book carefully cover to cover and bring it almost everywhere you go that is your bible SGT.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2018 9:37 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 May 2018 21:37:18 -0400

2LT Private RallyPoint Member grow thick skin. You’re going to hear things that you don’t want to hear every day.
Other than that, be firm, fair and diligent. Know your job. Know your NCOs. Trust them. Know that there will unfortunately be some you can’t. People do what you inspect, not what you expect. Always eat last. And when someone in your platoon really f*cks the dog, stand up, say, “this is my platoon,
I’m responsible for their behavior. If there’s discipline, give it to me.” And then handle the discipline to your joes. Be able to ruck. And be able to at least drag another soldier with a full ruck.

It’s naive to say that your gender won’t be an issue. It shouldn’t be, but it most likely will be. But the advice is the same for a male or female, infantry or cook.
Best of luck to you.
Respectfully.

Response by CPO Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2018 9:41 PM

CPO Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 May 2018 21:41:19 -0400

Lead from front, listen to NCO's, under stand 1/3 / 2/3rd rule in patrol planning and mission perp, take care of your troops, get to know them, thing like goals in Army and life, family, things they like to do, that will take you a long way. Tactics, and more tactics, and hate to say but your female so you better be up on PT, they will kill you (part of lead from front) I am not a Army Grunt, but we use these principles in our leader ship ,come from Marine Infantry, that's who leads our training. Good luck.

I will add this please don't be doing this, because you are trying to do something others have not, do it because you understand Infantry mission and troops, something like Infantry is a life style, not a place to prove a point, or to say I did it.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made May 23 at 2018 9:43 PM

LTC Jason Mackay — Wed, 23 May 2018 21:43:14 -0400

https://www.rallypoint.com/answers/new-officers-listen-up

New Officers, Listen Up. | RallyPoint

As a newly Commissioned Officer, or as a Cadet aspiring to become an Officer, you may be asking yourself many questions as you get closer to leading your first Platoon. How will I rise to the challenge? How should I “come in”? The first thing you need to adjust is your mindset. Unless you have prior enlisted experience, you have to adjust to the fact that you will not be leading peer Cadets. Cadets are great and wonderful people. They are...

Response by SFC George Sease made May 23 at 2018 9:43 PM

SFC George Sease — Wed, 23 May 2018 21:43:17 -0400

Also LISTEN to your PSG. The PSG is there to TEACH YOU and to help you. If you go with the attitude that you know it all, all you have set your self up for failure! If you go to your PSG and tell him that you are dumb as a box of rocks and ask him to help you and teach you then if he is worth anything he will set you up for success.

Response by CSM Darieus ZaGara made May 23 at 2018 9:49 PM

CSM Darieus ZaGara — Wed, 23 May 2018 21:49:15 -0400

The same as for a male. You better be intelligent, witty, physically strong, have great stamina, and be prepared to lead from the front not your collar. Thank you for your service.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2018 9:50 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 May 2018 21:50:01 -0400

If you like being outside for days or weeks at a time, rarely showering, sleeping in dirt, rucking many miles a day, wearing body armor in 100+ degree weather, smelling human feces being burned with diesel, extremely rare access to running water, and having to make life or death decisions for your entire squad or platoon, then by all means join the infantry. If you want an easy life, go signal or supply. (Signal has air conditioning)

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2018 10:01 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 May 2018 22:01:20 -0400

If you do want to go officer in the infantry, you will most likely be a butterbar, or second lieutenant. I cannot stress this enough, DO WHAT YOUR NCO'S SAY. They have experience. You don't. If they are a sergeant, they have at least 3 years under their belt. A lieutenant in the field is basically a figurehead. They start to earn respect once they make captain. Your job is to get whatever the enlisted need. All a grunt needs to be happy is three of these four things: sleep, food, ammunition, and something to shoot at. Make sure they have three things and they will have your back. And remember, the one phrase that pisses the enlisted off the most is "Back in ROTC/OCS" do these things and you will be a cut above the rest.

Response by SSG Shane Adams made May 23 at 2018 10:02 PM

SSG Shane Adams — Wed, 23 May 2018 22:02:24 -0400

Use your NCOs , practice as much as possible with your weapons systems

Response by 1stSgt Nelson Kerr made May 23 at 2018 10:15 PM

1stSgt Nelson Kerr — Wed, 23 May 2018 22:15:07 -0400

Read "Men against fire' as a start and get in betters hape that you think you can be before you start training. I wish you luck Sgt.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2018 10:21 PM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 May 2018 22:21:06 -0400

If you plan to go Ranger and live the life of a front line war fighter then by all means remain infantry. I certainly hope you have no problems with land navigation, qualifying with your weapon, physical fitness, long days, tons of field duty, and dealing with things other sections are sensitive to. Keep in mind that I'm not bringing this up because you're a female, I'd apply this logic to anybody who is feeling like they have the fortitude to handle infantry life.

Response by SPC Jesse Peeples made May 23 at 2018 10:32 PM

SPC Jesse Peeples — Wed, 23 May 2018 22:32:52 -0400

Thick skin a good sense of humor and a crazy eye for respect No Ground to Give

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2018 10:44 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 May 2018 22:44:24 -0400

"Don't do it", I don't want to hear it. There is a lot of arrogance behind that. The kind of arrogance that is not received well from someone who shows up to an Infantry unit with no proven record. Words don't matter, only action. As an Infantry officer, you better be faster and stronger than the majority of the men in your platoon. The Infantry only follows those who can lead...

Response by MAJ James Woods made May 23 at 2018 11:12 PM

MAJ James Woods — Wed, 23 May 2018 23:12:25 -0400

Be yourself. Be strong. They still have to respect the rank and you'll earn their respect through your own actions. That's a start.

Response by LTJG Richard Bruce made May 23 at 2018 11:18 PM

LTJG Richard Bruce — Wed, 23 May 2018 23:18:22 -0400

Why do you want to be an infantry officer? Are you ready to kill people and break things? Are you ready to order others into situations where there is a good chance they will die? Are you ready to carry your own weight and the weight of others? Are you ready to follow orders where you may die? Have you made peace with God?

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 23 at 2018 11:30 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 23 May 2018 23:30:41 -0400

Just show them your, RANGER patch, and "Jump Wings". And if you don't have any of those, show them your EIB.
The best thing is, the Army will let you have them all, if you go to those schools.

Response by Cpl Mark A. Morris made May 23 at 2018 11:39 PM

Cpl Mark A. Morris — Wed, 23 May 2018 23:39:08 -0400

What are the requirements in the Arkansas National Guard for Female Infantry Officers? What are your weaknesses?
If you want something bad enough, you will find a way to succeed.
I was suppose to get combat photographer. But, I got 0311 and shipped overseas to play in Blizzards. Then, I had to eat matchstick heads for the sulfur to keep ticks and chiggers off me in NC.
If you want grunt life, get ready to sweat and freeze. Keep a little cooking oil for the occasional snake and turtle. It's much better with oil.
Break a leg Sgt.

Response by SPC Anthony Schepis made May 23 at 2018 11:56 PM

SPC Anthony Schepis — Wed, 23 May 2018 23:56:30 -0400

Do it so you can fail and make everyone not like you.

Response by SN Greg Wright made May 24 at 2018 1:45 AM

SN Greg Wright — Thu, 24 May 2018 01:45:54 -0400

Perhaps you didn't intend to, but you come off as arrogant and entitled. If you're so fragile that you can't handle negative feedback, then I'd suggest that combat arms is not the route you want to take. Take someone's 'don't do it' and shove it up their ass with ACTIONS. Not words. With this post, you've disadvantaged yourself out of the gate. You have no inherent right to be an infantry officer simply because you have a vagina, any more than a man would because he has a penis. If you prove yourself to your troops, your gender won't matter. If you make your gender an issue IT WILL MATTER.

Response by CSM Eric Biggs made May 24 at 2018 3:51 AM

CSM Eric Biggs — Thu, 24 May 2018 03:51:10 -0400

Tips for new officers in general: 1. You might have the rank and education, but realize you don't have the training or experience, listen to everyone in your platoon. Even the newest PVT has more experience in this job than you do. 2. Be humble, ask your platoon sergeant to train you. 3. Earn the respect of your soldiers by leading your platoon from the front. If they see you doing it they will follow. 3. Be the best leader you would want to work for. 4. Always be early. 5. Stay in your lane, if it's NCO business stay out of it.

For you specifically: 1. Get thick skin! I understand you don't want to hear the negative comments. However until you graduate Infantry Officer Basic Course (IOBC), Ranger School (which is a requirement for Infantry Officers), and have proven yourself to your platoon and commander you will hear the negative comments, get use to it and use it as fuel for your fire to succeed. 2. Get yourself a Ranger Handbook and memorize it.

If you are easily offended, pick a different branch. Part of the Infantry culture is be crass, in your face, shit talking, making fun of blood, death and gore. This is because we know we might eat a bullet in 5 minutes and these cultural norms for us help us deal with the hellish realities. Give as good as you get. Always remember there is no better friend than a pissed off Infantryman and no worse enemy.

Response by SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth made May 24 at 2018 5:33 AM

SGT David A. 'Cowboy' Groth — Thu, 24 May 2018 05:33:33 -0400

Treat your NCO's with respect, listen the advice from senior NCO's (they aren't where they're at for nothing) , last make wise decisions.

Response by Cpl Jeff N. made May 24 at 2018 7:12 AM

Cpl Jeff N. — Thu, 24 May 2018 07:12:47 -0400

Everyone wants to be a grunt until you have to do grunt things.

I don't know about the army these days but the Marine Corps challenges all of their officer candidates pretty seriously then you go to the infantry officer's course which is very challenging to say the very least. A lot of very tough men do not make it through this course.

I will tell you I have zero interest in women in the infantry and I do not hide that opinion on RP. Most people, even men, that want to be in the infantry have very little idea what they are getting into. You might want to check the "I don't want to hear it" attitude. You will hear lots of things you do not want to hear. You will have to do lots of things you will not want to do and the likelihood is that if you fail, you will fail because of your limitations not because of anything anyone says or does to you.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2018 7:13 AM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 24 May 2018 07:13:53 -0400

Haters exist. Your job is to convince them that you are (going to be) an Infantry officer, not a female Infantry officer. There are lots of resources out there to help, but ultimately you are the change you want to be in this world. Good luck.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2018 7:52 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 24 May 2018 07:52:11 -0400

Keep your head up and don’t be afraid to call out mysoginy

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made May 24 at 2018 8:01 AM

CPT Lawrence Cable — Thu, 24 May 2018 08:01:57 -0400

Sure. Here we go. First, forget about the female side of the APFT. If you want to have the respect of a bunch of testosterone filled males, you need to be able to perform physically at a level reasonably close to their average. That isn't regulations, but it is reality. You don't need to score 300, but 60 points in an event isn't going to get you any respect. Listen to your Platoon Sergeant and Senior NCO's. Most of these guys have forgot more than you will know when you start. It's still your platoon and your decision, but you need to be right if you are going against your PS's recommendations. Do your job and let the NCO's do theirs, but remember that if it isn't inspected, it isn't done. Set the example, be proficient at your job, take care of your soldiers and make sure that they see you met the requirements on stuff like weapons qualifications and APFT.
Good luck if you decide to try it. Most civilians have no clue about just how difficult a grunts life can get, especially in light, air assault or airborne units. Infantry Officer Basic Course is physically and mentally challenging and can be a butt kicker if you aren't up to speed on tactics and physically in shape. It's hard even if you are.

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2018 10:32 AM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 24 May 2018 10:32:21 -0400

Regarding your troops:

Grow a thick skin (if you don't already have one). As a SGT already, I'm assuming you know the typical male sense of humor, and that a lot of the disparaging phrases and jokes they make impose feminine characteristics on each other intended to motivate them to stop whining or being weak, etc. Don't get offended by the small stuff... and use it if you can without sounding like you are trying too hard. It is a language they understand-- not necessarily specifically derogatory toward females (although that sounds counterintuitive). Phrases like getting into 'bigger-d***' contests with people, or calling someone a 'p***y' when they are acting tired, weak, or whiny are common colloquialisms-- idioms rather than intended insults-- that are NOT intended to be taken literally.

That does not suggest you shouldn't take proper measures to correct stuff that is legitimately effed up-- specific derogatory language about or legitimate harassment of a particular individual, discussing people's physical attributes or what they would like to 'do' to them-- I'm talking real people like other soldiers, sisters, spouses, etc., not celebrities. That said-- Let the NCO's do the talking. Especially the yelling. As an NCO, you know how much YOU want the officers to conveniently have somewhere else to be when you need to correct or discipline the troops. Offer your NCOs the courtesy you would have appreciated in your NCO days.
(This isn't always easy... I haven't been an NCO since 2001, and I still have to choke back my inner Devil Dog when I see Sailors all hosed up or acting disrespectfully... Especially when I see other more senior Sailors taking no action to correct it. Spot corrections are okay and expected, but officers are not supposed to participate in full blown Alpha Charlies.)

Most important-- do NOT freak out if they call you 'Sir'. Infantry Soldiers see officer insignia and immediately think 'sir'. It isn't even a gender thing. It is a Pavlovian response to seeing shiny rank. Shiny rank = Sir. It is that simple. (I worked at a submarine command long before the integration of women, and I got called 'sir' all the time... then the guys would be embarrassed about it, or stumble over what they should say.... Ma'am is not 'natural' for them-- at least not yet. No offense is intended.) Now, the ones you interact with daily should figure it out pretty quickly, but cut them some slack in the beginning.

Make no mistake-- they are going to test you. They are going to try to break you. (This is not unique to females... they test all their officers.) They want to make sure you have what it takes both physically and in terms of mental toughness to lead them in potentially life and death situations. They might try a few unique tricks because you are female-- don't take the bait. If you get 'offended' about little things, they will exploit that weakness.

Regarding your peers and interactions with other officers:

As we say in the Navy-- Don't s*** where you eat. As much as your fellow Platoon leaders may be handsome and charming-- and your superiors even moreso-- don't. Don't go there. Other units-- gray area, but definitely NOT in your own unit. Nothing good will come of it.
(I say this having no idea about your relationship status or preferences-- more as just general advice.)

Speaking of your male peers-- expect them to be... hesitant... around you. The world is incredibly political right now. They are inundated with examples of easily offended women in the news, so they are going to be gun-shy. They don't want to say the 'wrong thing' and lose their careers over 'offending a woman'. It isn't personal, and hopefully (assuming you are not the easily offended type) they will get over that relatively quickly once they get to know you. Their wives will hate you for existing (they will see you as some kind of a 'threat' because you work with their husbands-- especially if they (and you) spend a lot of time on field or training exercises... I guess they don't realize I have to smell them at their worst... no thank you-- you can keep him... ewww.) Don't feel bad if your male peers completely shun you at social events where the spouses are present. Making you feel 'included' is not as important to them as avoiding the nagging of said suspicious/ jealous spouse for the rest of their natural lives. Even if they develop a level of trust and comfort around you at work, they will likely not be comfortable including you in their social interactions. Meeting up at a base O-club for a few drinks on Friday before bailing for the weekend-- that will likely happen. Don't expect to get invited to a Saturday barbeque at anyone's house-- even if all the other men are. Again, it isn't personal. They just aren't comfortable around women co-workers. If you complain about being excluded-- to them or especially to superiors-- they will put even more distance between you and them.

Unfortunately, this is NOT only because women in the infantry is a 'new' thing. Women have been fully integrated in my line of work for a generation, and it still exists. I am describing my OWN experience for my entire 20 years across the rank spectrum of E-2 through O-4. It's just the way it is-- only worse now that #metoo is in the spotlight and feminism tries to make it out as if ALL men are predators.

Don't expect to find a lot of solace in other female officers, either. First- there aren't a lot of us, and second- we hate each other. That women generally are catty b****es is certainly not news to you... you would think we could 'get over it' and be a 'band of sisters' in uniform... yeah?.. no. Doesn't work that way. Some of us do, but we are naturally cliquey and gravitate toward only those with similar personalities. In my 20 years, I've found only a handful of women that I REALLY get along with, and only about 3 that I continue to communicate with regularly.

Sorry about the novel, and sorry about all the bad news. Hope at least some of it is helpful.

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made May 24 at 2018 10:33 AM

SGT Dave Tracy — Thu, 24 May 2018 10:33:17 -0400

I would say this for anyone going into an Infantry O slot, and am not specifically tailoring this to a female potential Infantry LT: Understand Infantry is a wholly different animal from other MOSs. Having been a Grunt and a soft-skill MOS, I have seen both sides. NCOs are your most valuable asset (as you I'm sure you know 2LT Private RallyPoint Member being an NCO). Lead from the front--which aint always easy for anyone--be the example. Lastly, keep Higher off your platoons ass!

Response by CW3 Kevin Storm made May 24 at 2018 11:24 AM

CW3 Kevin Storm — Thu, 24 May 2018 11:24:09 -0400

From the maintenance side, I would highly recommend getting deep in the weeds with your-10's and -20 level TM's on your equipment. Learn how to set up your radios, and other technical equipment. Don't be so dependent that you have to rely on your operator for everything. If there is a place on a track where you have to crawl under it to inspect it, do it, it shows you will do what you need to do to ensure it is done right. Don't be afraid to get dirty, respect your NCO's, punish in private, reward in public.

Response by SSG Warren Swan made May 24 at 2018 11:34 AM

SSG Warren Swan — Thu, 24 May 2018 11:34:12 -0400

Don't quit. All I got.

Response by Maj John Bell made May 24 at 2018 12:04 PM

Maj John Bell — Thu, 24 May 2018 12:04:56 -0400

Develop a tough hide. As a company grade officer nobody cares what you don't want to hear.

Response by SFC Joseph Weber made May 24 at 2018 12:08 PM

SFC Joseph Weber — Thu, 24 May 2018 12:08:34 -0400

My answer to about half the questions on Rally Book. Pushups, lots of pushups.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2018 12:36 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 24 May 2018 12:36:41 -0400

Firstly lose the "female" infantry officer mentality. It is old news these days. Think of it like the Marines: white, black, red, green, male, female, Jew, atheist...you're simply a Marine. You are (wanting to be) in the Infantry. You aren't special, there are thousands of us. 2/11 IN at Fort Benning mints a crowd of them every month. The second you use the phrase "come on don't let a female beat you", every single one of your E1's to E6's will turn into Ivan Drago from Rocky and they will destroy you, and it will be your fault and your commander will take their side, and your fellow PLs will too.

Second, yea you are an E5, but the second you commission that goes away. Don't drop the line "well when I was a team leader" or "when I was an NCO", because you gave that up. That doesn't mean don't forget where you came from, but honestly, unless it helps the enlisted out GREATLY, keep it to yourself. And I saw a poster say that they will respect you more if you were enlisted before...sort of. Some won't, some will. Again you left the NCO corps to become an officer. You aren't Joe's buddy any more and you aren't Joe.

I'm taking a broad assumption here and saying you are not an infantry team leader E5. Learn infantry everything. IBOLC is where you will become an infantry officer by MOS/Branch only. Remember that the "B" in IBOLC (or IOBC if you still want to call it that) stands for BASIC. You know enough to get people killed in combat at that point. Where you really become infantry is in your rifle platoon and company. That is where you will hone your TTPs, fine tune your command style, and learn all you can from your guys who have been there and done it a lot longer than you.

You don't have to be a PT stud, but you better be out there with them doing PT. You better be able to carry THEIR ruck, and I mean the 240 ammo bearer's, the 60mm mortar gunner's, or the RTO's. You need to know how to time the M242 Bushmaster, do ammo upload/download, and fire a good commander's engagement through the Aux sight. That is, if you expect your infantry platoon to do all of that.

Lastly, be present. You are (trying) to be infantry. Be it. Be cold, hot, tired, hungry. Be slathered in camo paint. Ask the senior infantry guys questions. Have an infantry mentor. You don't have to be a walking 7-8 manual, but know how to close with and kill the enemy in a number of fun and exciting ways. Know the platoon's strengths and weaknesses. Know yours.

Be what Ernie Pyle talked about.
https://www.stripes.com/news/the-god-damned-infantry-sidebar-7.307065

“The God-damned Infantry” sidebar

I love the infantry because they are the underdogs. They are the mud-rain-frost-and-wind boys. They have no comforts, and they even learn to live without the necessities. And in the end they are the guys that wars can’t be won without. …

Response by MSG Danny Mathers made May 24 at 2018 3:07 PM

MSG Danny Mathers — Thu, 24 May 2018 15:07:25 -0400

The infantry culture is not ready for women. You'd have to be the meanest MF in the Valley and the strongest and the fastest. No sickcall s for women's health issues and lastly, NCOs that will protect you from terminal stupid attacks. If you survive 6 month, you'll one day command a company.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 24 at 2018 4:45 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 24 May 2018 16:45:19 -0400

Show up on day one with confidence. But not arrogance. 2LT's know nothing. Even if you do, you don't. Be ready to learn. Being a woman you may have it tougher than men in your position. My advice for that is PT. You need to show up with the ability to smoke PT and the APFT. That will speak volumes from Day 1. And know your doctrine.

Things not to do:
1. Don't even address the whole "female/infantry" thing. You're in charge. Just be in charge.
2. Don't tell your platoon that you're in charge. They're well aware of that.
3. Don't be overly tough in an attempt to be more "Guy-like". I've seen women in the military do this and it doesn't go over well with the troops. Just be yourself.
4. Don't act like guys do/talk like guys do/laugh at what guys do in an attempt to get them to like you. There's a lot of offensive stuff that gets said in an Infantry unit. If it offends you, don't pretend that it doesn't. If it doesn't, laugh. Just be yourself.
4. Don't be overly nice in an attempt to make friends with the platoon. Just be yourself (noticing a pattern yet?). It took me months to really get to know my platoon well. That's just the way I am.

Good luck to you. I love the Infantry. It's the best job I've ever had. I hope your experience is as good as mine was.

Response by SGM Jeffrey Hall made May 24 at 2018 8:53 PM

SGM Jeffrey Hall — Thu, 24 May 2018 20:53:50 -0400

Understanding that the rules regarding combat arms assignments have changed, I would sincerely recommend the following: do not accept lower standards based on your gender. If you expect a 25 year old infantry Soldier (male) to meet certain standards, I think it would be prudent for you, as an officer to meet those same standards. Combat does not care about gender and the organization is only as strong as the weakest link. So to you, I strongly suggest you not be viewed as the weakest link of your organization.

Response by PO1 William "Chip" Nagel made May 24 at 2018 8:58 PM

PO1 William "Chip" Nagel — Thu, 24 May 2018 20:58:57 -0400

2LT Private RallyPoint Member "Bullet Bait" "Cross Fire" "Is It Still Called Fratricide If It's a Female Officer?" All Jokes Aside I think You will do Just Fine and having the Previous Experience as Enlisted You will make an Excellent Mustang.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 25 at 2018 7:41 AM

MSG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 25 May 2018 07:41:33 -0400

As a former platoon sergeant, I will tell you what I expected from any PL, no matter the sex. You must be ready to listen, just because you are a former NCO doesn't mean you know everything. You must be ready to lead by example. You must be physically prepared for the challenges of being in an infantry unit. PT is a must, you must be as strong as your strongest soldier, you must be able to carry your weight. Talk to the soldiers as the way you want to be talked to, with dignity and respect. Be willing to endure criticism without getting emotional. Remember, you are the PL Leader, let the NCOs do the NCO thing, and give them good, concise, clear guidance.

Response by MAJ David Wallace made May 25 at 2018 12:29 PM

MAJ David Wallace — Fri, 25 May 2018 12:29:18 -0400

CSM Eric Briggs hit that one out of the park!! I would copy and paste his notes somewhere near and dear to your heart. Soldiers follow humble leaders who take the same risks as themselves. In the Infantry, you are not above your Soldiers. They are why you are there. Learn from everyone. Make yourself better than you were yesterday. Don't rest on your laurels. Don't be afraid to get dirty. Be the shield for your platoon and guard them against the soul sucking antics of the Goid Idea Fairies. If you aren't willing to bet your bars on a well trained and disciplined team and their ability to make the mission happen, look for a different vocation. Be prepared to take a legendary ass chewing when you go boldly to bat to try something innovative that actually works. Just a couple of quick hits from an old grunt.......

Response by Maj Eric Gumz made May 25 at 2018 8:51 PM

Maj Eric Gumz — Fri, 25 May 2018 20:51:37 -0400

Probably should post this question AFTER you earn the MOS. But here goes.... 1. Don't fall out of hikes in front of your troops.... 2. Don't think for a minute that you will get any special treatment because you're a female, nobody gives a crap. 3. If you're doing this for attention or to be a part of the grand social experiment your troops will see through it and eat you alive. 4. If you actually make it through MOS school and Lets face it, the statistics aren't in your favor, listen to your SNCOs and NCOs. They know what to do, more than likely you do not, mouth shut, eyes and ears open, learn from them. 5. Don't become intimately involved with subordinates, it never stays a secret for long and you will be sent quickly to the 1st CIVDIV with a dishonorable discharge. 6. Don't expect your troops to do something you can't or won't do yourself. 7. IF you become an infantry officer, you may have the MOS but YOURE STILL A BOOT, be humble.

Response by SFC Ralph E Kelley made May 25 at 2018 11:55 PM

SFC Ralph E Kelley — Fri, 25 May 2018 23:55:03 -0400

Own what you do.
When shit happens never explain to avoid responsibility.
Never complain when things go awry to avoid accountability.
Don't quit and keep your sense of humor.
If you fail to utilize your NCOs you will fail.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2018 10:11 AM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 27 May 2018 10:11:10 -0400

I’ll tell you the advice I just gave the top Infantry branched Officer at West Point a couple of days ago. There will be a time when you can’t carry as many sandbags on your shoulders as the other guys; and that’s okay. But, there is absolutely no excuse for not being as mentally competent as any other LT. Realize that physiologically you are not as strong as a male your size so done hide it- admit it and work within those constraints. Keep trying and never quit. I’ll see you at Ranger school graduation.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 27 at 2018 9:38 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 27 May 2018 21:38:57 -0400

1. As others have said, your physical fitness is going to be paramount. Beyond graduating IBOLC you need to be able to ruck and run with your troops. Adhering to the extremely low female standards is not going to get you there. The "unofficial" standard in combat arms is a 270 on the male scale. That's where I would set your goal. As a future Infantryman I would also make sure you can ruck 12 miles in 3 hours. A PL who can't keep up, regardless of gender, is not going to be successful.

2. I'm going to be candid on this one. Be willing to give the benefit of the doubt and take advantage of "teachable" moments. You're probably going to have subordinates and leaders who are good Soldiers but ignorant to some female specific situations. I'll share a personal example. My wife asked me to help her set up her ASUs for a ceremony awhile back. Being a former Honor Guard, I figured it would be easy. I had no idea how difficult it is to get everything to sit straight without pockets on the jacket. While uniform regulations are a minor issue, there will likely be similar situations when it comes to logistics planning, medical readiness, etc.

3. Be the example of what a female infantry leader should be. In many settings you're going to be a male Infantryman's first impression of females. As such, you're probably going to face more scrutiny than your male counterparts. It may not be "fair" but its part of being a trailblazer.

Assuming you plan to stay in the AR ARNG, we will probably work together at some point. Best of luck.

Response by SGT Aric Lier made May 28 at 2018 8:08 AM

SGT Aric Lier — Mon, 28 May 2018 08:08:58 -0400

ill just respond with something my father told my mother once.... "I dont bake cookies, and you dont change oil" leave the oil alone

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made May 28 at 2018 10:49 AM

SGM Bill Frazer — Mon, 28 May 2018 10:49:23 -0400

You must compete at the level of your peers to be accepted, no whining, crying (except in private which we all do). Do your best at all times- be truthful, fair and hard charging.

Response by SMSgt Thor Merich made May 28 at 2018 10:49 AM

SMSgt Thor Merich — Mon, 28 May 2018 10:49:45 -0400

Two words of advice. Drop the female infantry officer stuff. There is no MOS in the Army described as “female” anything. You want to be an Infantry Officer.

Second, don’t do stupid shit.

Good luck.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 28 at 2018 11:48 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 28 May 2018 11:48:25 -0400

2LT Private RallyPoint Member, there is a plethora of great advice here! One thing I will add is that Mustangs can make great officers, but we also have the challenge of remembering that while we know our Joes, we don't know what it's like to be an "O." Stick by your PSG and ask a senior 1LT to mentor you. Be the best you can be and always try to lead from the front.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 28 at 2018 6:25 PM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 28 May 2018 18:25:56 -0400

As an Infantry Officer I was opposed to females in the branch, not because of females, but because a lot of our boys don't know how to act around women. It is a rough environment with a lot of high-testosterone guys who make crude jokes (to each other) and sleep outside in the dirt, sometimes going weeks without a shower. They are also some of the greatest people you'll ever get to know and most will give you the shirt off your back if you need one.

As long as you know what you're going into I say, God bless you. One of the best things you can read, and memorize if possible, is the Ranger handbook. They're available at virtually all clothing sales or you can buy one on Amazon. Even if you don't get a Ranger school slot (I never did after 30 years of trying), the information in that book is invaluable as a platoon leader and will also help you in company command. Go to every school the Army will let you go to and get every badge and tab you can. It will help you in your career but mostly it will give you credibility in the eyes of your men. I was sincerely impressed when I met a tiny female colonel with a Jump Master badge because I know what it takes to get there. You will have to be tough. Tougher than your men and they will expect you to be able to do everything they can. No where else in the Army is more important to lead by example than the infantry. You will work closer with your troops that any other branch does.

PT your butt off and start ruck-marching if you haven't already. You'll do a lot of it in IOBC and your body needs to be used to it. You'll also do more in Ranger school, Air Assault, Jungle Warfare, etc. You'll need to do 6 pull-ups to graduate, something many women have trouble with because your physiology doesn't possess the same upper body strength as a man of the same size. You'll have to pass the APFT at the 17-21 age MALE standard and run 5 miles in under 40 minutes to graduate Ranger school. IOBC expects these standards as well. Most of all, take care of your people and they will take care of you. I learned that as a private 32 years ago.

Response by Cpl Brian Escobar made May 30 at 2018 6:49 PM

Cpl Brian Escobar — Wed, 30 May 2018 18:49:19 -0400

The politicians mandated women in the grunts. I can teach my cat to high five me...that doesnt make him human or a very good one.....so just because you can theoretically do it, doesn't mean you should....That ought to tell you everything about where this will end up for our military....It wont end well. Just look at the history of warfare. Armies that got overly political and arrogant (like this current movement) got rolled!! Women can run armor, and they can fly jets and do other combat tasks really well...let's just leave the Infantry alone so that it can do what it does best...be mean AF!

Response by SPC Sheila Lewis made May 31 at 2018 9:00 AM

SPC Sheila Lewis — Thu, 31 May 2018 09:00:08 -0400

I already don't respect You....

Response by MSG Dan Castaneda made May 31 at 2018 10:51 AM

MSG Dan Castaneda — Thu, 31 May 2018 10:51:04 -0400

Have a Ranger tab or don't show up.

Response by SFC James Heath made May 31 at 2018 11:09 AM

SFC James Heath — Thu, 31 May 2018 11:09:26 -0400

Build upper body strength. Work protecting inner-communication skills. Evaluate your NCOs and trust them to carry out your orders. You are their commander, not their friend.

Response by SGT Nels Neumann made May 31 at 2018 1:59 PM

SGT Nels Neumann — Thu, 31 May 2018 13:59:16 -0400

As a former infantryman I don’t think you’ll see as many problems as you may imagine. The job is difficult for any new LT. Be tough but fair. Listen to your Platoon Sargent, and don’t think you know everything going in. (The same advice I’d give to any new LT.) As for problems specific to being a woman, be professional and expect your soldiers to do the same. This is new for them and the culture. Set high standards for yourself and you’ll make it easier for other females who follow in your footsteps.

Welcome aboard Ma’am.

Response by Thunder O'Meara made May 31 at 2018 3:48 PM

Thunder O'Meara — Thu, 31 May 2018 15:48:43 -0400

Do it. I think women should be allowed to do everything a man can, and that includes the infantry. Female nurses are more comforting than males, and especially during combat. I feel you should also do what you want to do in the Military. Good luck!

Response by SFC Dennis A. made May 31 at 2018 4:59 PM

SFC Dennis A. — Thu, 31 May 2018 16:59:04 -0400

I would say what you don't want to hear "don't do it", not because you are a female but because I never wanted to be Infantry. I have a lot of respect for Infantry, Armor and such but was very happy and proud to be an Engineer.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made May 31 at 2018 6:05 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Thu, 31 May 2018 18:05:38 -0400

I forgot three crucial items. Know intimately the Troop Leading Process and the 5 paragraph OPORD. You need to memorize them by heart. The Troop Leading Procedures will help you manage and help you with the sequences necessary from mission acceptance to mission execution. The 5 paragraph OPORD will give you a very effective standard format to execute your mission and a good understanding of who does what and interplay with other organizations. Understand the Principles of War.

Response by LTC Donell Kelly made Jun 3 at 2018 2:21 AM

LTC Donell Kelly — Sun, 03 Jun 2018 02:21:49 -0400

A very strong sense of self.
Very thick skin.
LEARN from your NCO's.
A well-developed sense of humor.

Response by CPT John Hanaberry made Jun 3 at 2018 11:43 AM

CPT John Hanaberry — Sun, 03 Jun 2018 11:43:50 -0400

Yes find another branch. The last thing we need are girls on the battllefield

Response by MAJ Montgomery Granger made Jun 4 at 2018 2:43 PM

MAJ Montgomery Granger — Mon, 04 Jun 2018 14:43:24 -0400

If it's you, you've already done one of the most important things: Be enlisted and/or NCO first. All good officers don't need to be Mustangs, but many good ones are, especially if they can think like an officer after the transition, but never forget where they came from. The best leaders are always those who can lead by example. "Be, Know, Do" is a good mantra. Be yourself, and not what you think your troops want you to be. Remember this: "Never tell someone how to do something. Tell them what you want done and then let them surprise you with their ingenuity." - Gen. George S. Patton. Trust but verify. Study female MP officers and enlisted from the past, successful and not, from the Panama invasion, OIF and those who have attained the highest ranks; these soldiers have seen combat and you can learn from their successes and missteps. And never forget to find a good mentor! Good luck! Hooah!

Response by CPT John Hanaberry made Jun 4 at 2018 7:26 PM

CPT John Hanaberry — Mon, 04 Jun 2018 19:26:23 -0400

Try another branch

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 5 at 2018 10:24 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 05 Jun 2018 10:24:27 -0400

The likelihood of you getting a platoon is small unless you can go all the way and get your airborne and ranger tabs. The Army is a little smaller now and competition for platoon leader time is high. If you do branch Infantry and don't have the badges when you get to your BN don't be surprised if you end up as assistant BN staff S-1 S-3 or S-4. Go Engineer if you want to have a real shot at career progression. Plus IOBC is no joke went through it at 32yo slower than all the kids around me. If you cant ruck 45 to 50lbs 12 miles then choose something else or you will fail out and be stranded at Ft Benning for a long time prob in an S-1 slot. Its just to early in the process of letting females into the infantry, it wont be easy you will get harassed for just being female. Other than that Good Luck.

Response by CPT John Hanaberry made Jun 5 at 2018 10:49 PM

CPT John Hanaberry — Tue, 05 Jun 2018 22:49:58 -0400

Ask another question

Response by CPL Brian Prosser made Jun 6 at 2018 12:25 PM

CPL Brian Prosser — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 12:25:59 -0400

I have to agree the CSM. Be VERY thick skinned. We are a very close knit community of soldiers that different from the rest. It takes a special breed of person to do the job of killing people. So expect guys who talk crap to everyone. If you decide to do this, rely on the NCOs. We've been there longer and know more. Experience trumps education. Books can't teach you what we know.

Response by 1SG Edward Richards made Jun 11 at 2018 5:28 PM

1SG Edward Richards — Mon, 11 Jun 2018 17:28:14 -0400

Respect and Listen to your NCO's and listen to what they are telling you

Response by 1SG James Kelly made Jun 11 at 2018 6:41 PM

1SG James Kelly — Mon, 11 Jun 2018 18:41:50 -0400

You ask my opinion then tell me what not to say.
Does not work well with the 1SG.

Response by MAJ Jeri Jacobsen made Jun 12 at 2018 3:18 AM

MAJ Jeri Jacobsen — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 03:18:35 -0400

I was the first woman to graduate in my OCS class (1976). My first First SGT almost swallowed his cigar when I walked into the orderly room as a WAC 2LT. You have to understand that the guys are going to test you, all the time. Don't throw your rank around, the guys will bury you... lead by example, be professional and to be considered equal you have to be better than your peers. You are going to have to out PT them, out shoot them, and be the best tactical officer in the BN. It is going to be hard... BUT, you can do it...IF YOU really want to...

Response by SCPO Ken Badoian made Jun 12 at 2018 9:04 AM

SCPO Ken Badoian — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 09:04:26 -0400

First get in the best shape you can, listen to the senior NCO's, understand you are not a parent but a leader, and a few other points I learned that have stood me well. Always look better than the troops, see that they are taken care of first, no favorites, be approachable but firm, be professional, hump as much as the troops (ruck, etc.), and respect them for who they are the best infantry troops in the world. May success follow your career.

Response by SA Scotty Carter made Jun 14 at 2018 6:24 PM

SA Scotty Carter — Thu, 14 Jun 2018 18:24:13 -0400

All I can tell you is that you be you, do your best and work with your squad.

Response by 1SG Ernest Stull made Jun 16 at 2018 7:59 AM

1SG Ernest Stull — Sat, 16 Jun 2018 07:59:18 -0400

My advice to you is to be the best you can be. Lead by example, be prepared to make decisions that cannot be undone once their made soldiers die in combat but the decisions you make may put their lives at a greater risk. Listen to your nco" most will give you great advice but in the end its your call. If it doesn't kill you it will make you stronger, except Infantry will kill you. RLTW

Response by SSG Rick Miller made Jun 24 at 2018 3:09 PM

SSG Rick Miller — Sun, 24 Jun 2018 15:09:07 -0400

You begin with "Don't do it. I don't want to hear it". So... here we go. First, lose that fucked up attitude. You're going to hear plenty that you don't want to. Second, don't try to be a female Infantry officer, be a ground ponding, ass kicking Infantry officer. Third, know that you don't know shit about Infantry, and you didn't learn it in IOBC. Listen to your NOCs, listen to the juniors. Third, don't get offended when the troops test you, they test EVERY newbie LT. Fourth, remember that respect is earned, and go about doing that very thing. Last, be ready to get dirty, sweaty, tired, stinking, beat down, worn out, and still be able to outperform anybody else, without arrogance, without praise, and without recognition.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 25 at 2018 2:38 PM

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 25 Jun 2018 14:38:13 -0400

"Female Infantry Officer"? Or "soon to be Infantry Officer female"?

Response by SGT Richard Allen made Jun 29 at 2018 1:08 PM

SGT Richard Allen — Fri, 29 Jun 2018 13:08:51 -0400

listen to your sgt's. they have been there a while. I was a platoon sgt in Korea in the 50's

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 1 at 2018 4:39 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 01 Jul 2018 16:39:32 -0400

Understand the TLPs, Graphic controls and units, writing OPORDs, TACSOP, Priority of Work, and work with your PLSG. Make them sure that you appreciate the platoon.

Response by MAJ Matthew Arnold made Jul 1 at 2018 4:51 PM

MAJ Matthew Arnold — Sun, 01 Jul 2018 16:51:30 -0400

I did 5 years in the infantry, 1-508 Infantry Airborne, before I went to flight school. It is tough, dirty, challenging, and I loved every minute of it. If you can't excel at everything, then you better be superwoman at several things. For example: If you can't beat the boys at push-ups, then you better beat them at sit-ups or running. If you can't ruck faster then the 6'4" boys, then you better ruck longer then they can. If you can't fire a SAW batter then the boys, then you better know how to employ them better than the boys. I'm not saying you can't do these things. What I am saying is that you need to excel at several things so that when you walk away, the boys will say, "damn, that Lieutenant knows her shit." Or, your PSG, will be willing to rip them a new one if they show any disrespect, and he will only do that if he has respect for you, and what I've said above is one way your going to earn his respect.

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Jul 1 at 2018 10:37 PM

SSgt Daniel d'Errico — Sun, 01 Jul 2018 22:37:16 -0400

Yes. Listen to your men, especially the senior NCOs. Admit when you're wrong. And always try to present a positive attitude, an open door policy and lead from the front.

Response by CPL Glynnda White made Jul 3 at 2018 8:18 AM

CPL Glynnda White — Tue, 03 Jul 2018 08:18:21 -0400

Do not ask or accept any breaks in your training. If you are going to be an infantry officer then meet the requirements that all infantry officers have to meet. If you can't do it, don't become an infantry officer, you will never receive nor deserve the respect due an infantry officer

Response by CPL Sharon Fahey made Jul 4 at 2018 12:11 PM

CPL Sharon Fahey — Wed, 04 Jul 2018 12:11:18 -0400

Yeah, don't do it! As a woman who served with the Infantry and deployed with them I saw first hand how we females can screw up the cohesive and natural instincts men need in combat. Prove yourself in another arena. You get no Hooah from this retired Army female soldier. And as an officer you have to earn their respect not order it, remember that, or your life will be a living hell!

Response by SSgt William Blanshan made Jul 8 at 2018 8:42 AM

SSgt William Blanshan — Sun, 08 Jul 2018 08:42:58 -0400

Choose logistics instead.

Response by SSG Harry Outcalt made Jul 10 at 2018 5:02 PM

SSG Harry Outcalt — Tue, 10 Jul 2018 17:02:40 -0400

So you want tip's ? You heard lot's of good tips I'll add one that will make or break you . It's called respect , you better give it long before you get it... Grunt's are of many mind's when it comes to sharing combat face time with the enemy with Female's in the mix, when the bullet's start flying many will forget the female aspect , what they will not forget is the quality of the Infantry Officer in charge of them and more importantly whether that Infantry Officer has earned there respect....

Response by CPL Amy Lindell made Jul 11 at 2018 3:59 PM

CPL Amy Lindell — Wed, 11 Jul 2018 15:59:15 -0400

Are you committed to the wear and tear on your body and mind? The infantry is no joke. Being an officer is no joke. Being able to lead those men will mean compromising who you are as a woman because they won't follow if you aren't just as willing to kill yourself as they are. I also hope you aren't doing this as an Officer Candidate via OCS. They will definitely try and tear you down and build you into someone who believes they are a supreme being. You aren't. You will make the same dumb rookies mistakes that everybody does. The men you are leading will hate a distrust you for the mistakes you make. You won't get a second chance so forget the idea that you are better than anyone else and be prepared to lead from the front or they will chew toy up and spit you out. Also don't forget to give people a chance to chill when needed. There is nothing worse than a female trying to lead from the front and causing her troops to be waiting for nothing. If you think you can strike the balance more power to you.

Response by PFC Francis Ramseyer made Jul 13 at 2018 5:43 AM

PFC Francis Ramseyer — Fri, 13 Jul 2018 05:43:09 -0400

I was always against women in combat troupe. I am still against. Their is enough non combat positions for them to fulfill. We have to stop thinking that women are the same as men, they are not, they are differents.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 14 at 2018 3:11 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 14 Jul 2018 15:11:36 -0400

A long time ago I wrote an OPED about women in combat arms. I fully support it. As long as said woman can haul my ass out of the foxhole when I get shot. I fully support it if it is one Army, one standard. You will get much more respect if you meet the men's PT standards, and all other standards. One Army, one standard. BTW, I was mechanized and light infantry NCO. Good luck!! You can do it. Like the 1SG said below, if you are genuine and not trying to prove a point.

Response by SPC Jake Barton made Jul 20 at 2018 10:56 AM

SPC Jake Barton — Fri, 20 Jul 2018 10:56:57 -0400

Find something better to do your going to hate life if you do this

Response by MAJ John Douglas made Jul 22 at 2018 12:47 AM

MAJ John Douglas — Sun, 22 Jul 2018 00:47:29 -0400

My tip is stay out of the infantry, armor, artillery and combat engineers.

Response by MAJ John Douglas made Jul 22 at 2018 12:52 AM

MAJ John Douglas — Sun, 22 Jul 2018 00:52:37 -0400

The first time you can't hump your 75lb ruck up that hill and fall back, you are done. The first time you show why females dont play in the nfl, nba, mlb, you are done. There is a reason women are not in men's pro sports, a very good reason. This lunatic experiment to put you in combat arms is dangerous, destabilizing and wrong. And I dont give a rat's ass if you want to hear it or not.

Response by Sgt Jon Mcvay made Aug 2 at 2018 12:50 PM

Sgt Jon Mcvay — Thu, 02 Aug 2018 12:50:25 -0400

Infantry is more physical then mental. You have to be at the top of your game every time you go out. Get ready for 20 mile humps, sprains, strains, a back pack that will never weigh less than 30 pounds,( up to 80 pounds) + gear and weapon. An officer has to be able to lead from the front in hot and cold weather. It makes a person a better leader and follower than any other class(MOS). If you are a Maverick(enlisted to officer) then I will say this...You will be looked down sort of like a Warrant Officer neither Officer or enlisted. I had one that I had to deal with while in the motor pool, I requested to go back to the infantry. Now if this still sounds like something you want to do then GO FOR IT and don't let anyone tell you ... you can't do it. Your rifle and pistol scores will go up and carrying them will become second nature.
A special note: Not all Mavericks are bad just the one I had was.

Response by SrA Matthew Oneil made Aug 5 at 2018 4:31 PM

SrA Matthew Oneil — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 16:31:07 -0400

have a better score your weapon then the people you lead. Leading by example

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Aug 8 at 2018 12:54 PM

SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM — Wed, 08 Aug 2018 12:54:46 -0400

get ready to hump your ass off with the rucksack.

Response by SrA William Knight made Aug 19 at 2018 2:48 AM

SrA William Knight — Sun, 19 Aug 2018 02:48:36 -0400

Keep this attitude of asking for and accepting advice. Listen to your NCOs, they might be your subordinates in rank but they are your superiors in experience!

Response by MSG Moises Maldonado made Aug 20 at 2018 5:28 PM

MSG Moises Maldonado — Mon, 20 Aug 2018 17:28:01 -0400

Be prepared very Well to do a Man's JOB( Sorry I'm not into Political Correctness).. INFANTRY is Very Deploy able MOS.. FEBA Duty is the Basic Requirement.. Bullets Fly, Man Carry Act ( to save a Comrade.. Else, Both will Die-- then a Medal of Honor Will be wasted on Something Preventable). to Perform..( I seriously Doubt a Female Can( physically) / Willing (to) Do This under fire...).. .. Surely, Lower Standard will Allow this to Happen... Just being Honest....

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Aug 23 at 2018 3:45 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Thu, 23 Aug 2018 15:45:57 -0400

If an NCO has input for a different COA and the results are superior or the same, give the NCO a chance. It will help buy in.

Response by COL John Hudson made Aug 24 at 2018 3:43 PM

COL John Hudson — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 15:43:20 -0400

I enlisted in Army Infantry, Aug 22, 1966. At that time, women did not enlist in the "Army" as such, they went into the "Woman's Army Corp - WACs). In time, I went Aviation, then back to Infantry, next to Inspector General, Quarter Master, and finally Combat Generalist - a unique 30 year career, in as an E-1 and out as an O-6. The military may be compared to a 48" long rattle snake, but only the first one inch of that thing actually bites. The rest exists in support to ensure inch #1 can do its job. I never overlooked the importance of inches number 2 thru 48, but found myself pretty much always up at inch number one (Vietnam 2x, Balkan Conflict 1x, Iraq for 2x totaling 40 months). Infantry is the branch designed to "Hold Ground." It fights and bites, taken into action by the Air Force or Navy (same with Marines). So, it should come as no surprise that physical conditioning will be a top requirement for Infantry. Also, be aware that promotive opportunities require education as well as experience (time in grade), and there are a number of required schools for you to conquer in order to move up in rank. The ability to attend and complete such requirements is NOT gender specific. I want to be honest and point out that most of the time 'living conditions' will be sparse. I'm personally glad that virtually all glass ceilings have been removed, and have met and worked in combat with some truly excellent female soldiers - physically capable and well educated in the use of their weapons - this in both the Balkan Conflict and in Iraq, utilizing 7.62 machine guns, 5.56 weapons (including SAW Squad/Section Automatic Weapon), and M2 .50 caliber machine guns. If you are physically fit, open minded, able to accept discipline and challenges, desire to travel and work within hotly contested environments, then Infantry Branch will hold no barriers for you. Good luck young soldier - I envy you the adventure! JCH (Retired - 71 years old).

Response by COL John Hudson made Aug 24 at 2018 4:16 PM

COL John Hudson — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 16:16:04 -0400

I am in opposition to some of the commentary shown in this post. Oh, it's a "MAN's JOB" is it? That dinosaur attitude went out to pasture long ago. Yes, there are functions and circumstances requiring an above-average requirement for physical strength, and "WE, ALL OF US" - rise to those occasions to accomplish what's needed. Weak females? Listen up, fellas - I'll show you MALE soldiers smaller in stature than some of the female soldiers I've worked with in combat; those females a FULL head taller than I am, fielding 5.56 Squad Automatic Weapons with authority, physical strength greater than my own - while embracing an aggressive attitude that conclusively demonstrated that not all women want to be mothers! In Iraq, I sat down at the DFAC in Camp Taji with nine (9) aviators. Eight of those piloted UH-60 Blackhawk troop carriers. Pilot number nine was a FEMALE aviator commanding an OH-58D Kiowa gunship. That's right - 8 male taxi drivers and the FEMALE flew the gun! So, take a good look at TODAY"S military - stop comparing it to WWII or Korea, and understand we have MATURED beyond gender barriers and embrace the notion that those who can step up to the plate are entitled to do so regardless of their GENDER! I went outside the wire in Iraq almost daily - two twenty month tours. I've observed female cupola gunners on up-armored HWMVVs handling .50 caliber machine guns. My advice for you gender-freaks still out there is to get it out of your system, understand they are here to stay, and if that idea is NOT to your liking, then there's the door! JCH, Colonel, USA Ret.

Response by SrA John Monette made Aug 24 at 2018 8:14 PM

SrA John Monette — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 20:14:42 -0400

Go into the Air Force Security Forces

Response by Sgt Erle Mutz made Aug 25 at 2018 2:32 AM

Sgt Erle Mutz — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 02:32:03 -0400

Sarge - I hate to say this because it has become one of the most "shameful" things I have come to despise about the military.
I have been keeping a close eye on 'women in the military'. I am a 70 year old Marine Veteran and have seen it ALL. I'm a Sgt also having been promoted just before I was released from active duty in March of 1970.
The one piece of advise I must make you aware of is "ALWAYS watch your back and be EXTREMELY careful of who you are connected to. I'm mean in any of your duty stations.
The "sexual assault" statistics are climbing - NOT reducing!! The people above you cannot (or will not) believe or support you.
It happens in all branches and at all levels of rank. Research this topic extensively because I would not feel that I'm living up to my honor as a Marine if I did not make you aware of the tragic possibility!!
IF you are already in training - Good luck and God bless!!
Sgt Erle Mutz

Response by 2LT Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 26 at 2018 7:03 PM

2LT Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 19:03:29 -0400

Directly after I posted this months ago, rally point revoked my military validation. Hopefully that’s all sorted now, and I can actually sift through all of your comments and advice!
From what I’ve seen so far, and from training I’ve had over the summer....
-I 100% agree, there is no such thing as a female soldier, there is simply a soldier. I only specifically asked for advice towards the female soldier, because there are specific situations I will be expected to handle in which being a female may prove difficult policy-wise.
-I chose Infantry, because I wanted infantry. I enjoy the field, i enjoy pushing myself, and I enjoy how both of these things force me to appreciate the smaller things in life. I chose officership, because I enjoy taking care of soldiers. I enjoy teaching (and learning) what I know, and helping out where I can. I enjoy the standard an officer is required to hold.

I received my commissioning two weeks ago, and I am thoroughly excited to get started. Thank you!

Response by Sgt Erle Mutz made Aug 26 at 2018 9:12 PM

Sgt Erle Mutz — Sun, 26 Aug 2018 21:12:21 -0400

Congratulations Lt!!! And thanks for the the vote UP Ma'aM.

Response by Sgt Ken Prescott made Aug 29 at 2018 6:53 AM

Sgt Ken Prescott — Wed, 29 Aug 2018 06:53:35 -0400

Seriously? Unless being an 11A is your sole reason for existence on this Earth, as vouchsafed to you by St. Michael the Archangel...don't do it. And I'd say the same thing to a man as well. This is not a job. It is a commitment that will mark your body and soul for the rest of your life for good and bad alike.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 4 at 2018 11:28 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 04 Sep 2018 23:28:42 -0400

I sure do. Do not get ahead of yourself and just assume your going to become an Infantry Officer. The standards will not altere and trust me when I tell you there not afraid to fail someone who can not meet them. I’m not saying you can but don’t assume anything.

Response by SPC Mike Davis made Sep 7 at 2018 3:24 PM

SPC Mike Davis — Fri, 07 Sep 2018 15:24:09 -0400

A biologically inferior human being wanting to lead biologically superior males. You are a P.C. officer. Do not have to meet same standards as males to "earn?????" jump wings and ranger patch. Sadly good men will die (murdered) for political correctness. Do not like hearing the truth.....see if I gave a damn!

Response by SSG Omar Ruiz-Canales made Sep 14 at 2018 10:16 AM

SSG Omar Ruiz-Canales — Fri, 14 Sep 2018 10:16:42 -0400

Practice different sleeping patterns!!

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2018 10:25 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 14 Sep 2018 10:25:33 -0400

2LT Private RallyPoint Member first list below is basic stuff to get you in the door anywhere:
1. know your job and know that you do not know everything
2. be willing to accept help and learn from others
3. don't be an @sshole
4. take care of your Soldiers and leaders
5. if a PL learn from your PSG and work with them, that is your battle buddy even if you rate them
6. seek positions of responsibility and excel at them
7. know who helped you get where you are today and recognize them
8. seek opportunities for your unit to learn, train, and excel, nobody wants to just sit around

For infantry officer:
1. see above
2. show up and do the above
3. who cares about your gender or how you identify yourself; do your job and take care of others and the rest does not matter
4. some may make a big deal about you being a female, you should not be one of them

Response by SCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 14 at 2018 6:28 PM

SCPO Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 14 Sep 2018 18:28:43 -0400

Well, then, if everything you want to hear is of the positive reinforcement nature, I will say that you are in for a very rough ride throughout your career. You will be forced to deal with people every day who do not want you around, from PFCs to GENs. So, my advice is grow a huge brass pair, along with some very, very thick skin. And all for one purpose: unit cohesion. You can train and lead, and lead and train. But if you don't have real unit cohesion which involves the heart, mind, and soul of each person, the kind that comes from DEEP, DOWN inside and permeates every fiber of their beings, then you will always be in second place...and that is never the place to be in when you are in combat.

Response by LCpl Steve Smith made Sep 15 at 2018 1:47 AM

LCpl Steve Smith — Sat, 15 Sep 2018 01:47:26 -0400

Great words of advice from a lot of senior ranking Personnel...Now mam I was not a Grunt But I served my time with 3rd Battalion 5th Marines and worked, played and lived with them for my time in and Grunts and Grunt unit Marines Talk a lot of shit to each other so CSM Eric Biggs is 100% right when he said GET THICK FUCKING SKIN! You are an Infantry Officer not no Fucking POG Officer sitting way back doing admin work you will get your ass chewed by your Superiors and they won't care if you like it or not or if your feelings get hurt Infantry in the Army is like Grunts in the Corps...It's a whole different world then the rest of the Army. You will if shit hits the fan have to make hard calls to send some Grunts out on a Patrol that they might not return from. I eas'd an E-3 a Good Deal of the Officers I dealt with in my unit were Mustangs but We would get our College Grad that had no clue how to relate. All your Troops want is to know you know your shit and that you got their back those two things are the most important things to them... you can chew their ass give extra duty when they fuck up but if you know your shit and got their backs (unless they do something so stupid you can't and in that case you better be the 1st Officer to hit them for it.) Like I said you will take heat at times, Nothing like the old man Bright Red like a Fire Breathing Dragon foaming at the Mouth with Veins Bulging from his Forehead and Neck...I don't know does that happen in the Army? I know it did in the Marine Corps lol But getting an ass chewing and shit detail was always better than getting something put in my SRB lol. And the rest is like the others said...Don't have a You Better give me respect attitude because you shouldn't have to your Troops will give it to you and will bust their ass for Officers they have confidence in and trust. Good Luck, even as an Officer know when to pick your fights and Best of Luck I hope you have a long and fruitful Career as an Infantry Officer Grunts is a hard Life.

Response by 1SG James Matthews made Sep 16 at 2018 10:09 AM

1SG James Matthews — Sun, 16 Sep 2018 10:09:02 -0400

Go into it with an attitude of "I am going to be the best officer I can be for the troops under me"
Don't even try to think about being a female officer--you are an officer and an officer only.
Develop a thick skin and a hearing problem because there will be negative comments BUT don't hear them. Just do the best you can to be in front of your troops--not beside them or in the back of them but LEAD THE WAY every day.

Response by SFC Harry H. made Sep 19 at 2018 3:43 PM

SFC Harry H. — Wed, 19 Sep 2018 15:43:25 -0400

No, and I'm not sure there will many that can help you with that either being there is very few. One thing I can say though to any Infantry Officer, male of female. Listen to your E-7. You may have the brains, but he has the experience.

Response by CPT Jeff Robinette made Sep 23 at 2018 3:55 PM

CPT Jeff Robinette — Sun, 23 Sep 2018 15:55:44 -0400

It a good question ill answer honestly as an Infantry Officer should.
I served in the 1980s. I carried my own radio, a PRC-77 in my Alice Pack. I carried every bit of gear that my soldiers did. It didn't matter to me, if they carried it one is as well.
I lead from the front in every PT session and run.
Fast forward a few years, LOL! I just had my 6th Knee Surgery, in was scoped, a Coventry Osteotomy, Bone Graft and Neuroplasty, 2 TKRs, and most recently a Reduction of an Avulsion Fracture of my Patela. I have been diagnosed with Degenerative Joint Disease in both Knees and hips. I'm fortunate I don't have any Spine issues.
My advice to you is simple, be careful what you wish for; you might get it.
Hang tough with your soldiers. If they are humping app 80 lb Ruck you do the same.
Lead from the front and set and maintain acceptable standards of performance.
Be Technically and Tactically proficient. Read, Study, and Read more.
Be that skilled leader, use a map and compass along with a GPS, be that skilled Marksman with every weapon,.
Embrace the suck!

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 28 at 2018 8:40 AM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 28 Sep 2018 08:40:42 -0400

Be certain this is what YOU want and not what someone is pushing you to do. Be prepared for some to test you when you get to your unit. It could be your Platoon SGT or one of the members of the platoon. The first advice is when you first show up, stand back, watch and learn. Don't make a whole lot of changes right away. See how the platoon functions first. Of course, if you see something unsafe or illegal you MUST act right away. Remember that infantry does not have a lot of the comforts that others will have, be prepared. Don't ask your troops to do something that you are unwilling to do. There may be things that you can't do but, you at least have to try. Know that your soldiers will watch EVERYTHING you do. Best of luck!

Response by SGT Christopher Hayden made Sep 28 at 2018 12:22 PM

SGT Christopher Hayden — Fri, 28 Sep 2018 12:22:17 -0400

Don't hook up with the 1SG.

Response by SSG Dale London made Sep 30 at 2018 3:20 PM

SSG Dale London — Sun, 30 Sep 2018 15:20:11 -0400

I don't care what sex you are. Infantry officers need to be able to eat nails, spit fire and crap thunder. You gotta be tough, lean and the baddest MOFO on the battlefield -- and your soldiers have to believe this about you. If you have what it takes to lead men into battle, inspire them to wound, and kill the enemy -- and to accept the same fate themselves for the greater good, then go for it. Kick butt, take names, and leave nobody behind.
But... if you doubt yourself, if you lack the physical stamina or moral courage to be a life taker and a heart breaker -- it would be better you never started down the path of the crossed rifles. All too often a soldier (officer or otherwise) finds they are not infantry material too late. They or -- worse -- a buddy has been wounded or killed as a result of a character flaw.
One thing that bothers me about your question is the focus on gender. If you do not think of yourself as an infantry officer but as a Female infantry officer, you have already put yourself outside -- away from the soldiers you will be asking to fight and die at your command. This is not a good start.
If you are physically able to do the job, if you have the mental ability and the moral courage to devise and then enact the orders necessary to complete the mission -- in full knowledge that some, maybe even many of your troops may die in following them -- then forget you're female and focus on being a grunt.
If you can't do this then, I am sorry to dissapoint you, don't do it. I don't care what you want to hear. You need to hear this. Being an infantry officer is too important a task.
Be an infantry officer or don't -- but for God's sake and the sake of your troops -- don't waffle.

Response by Sgt Charles Welling made Oct 5 at 2018 8:59 AM

Sgt Charles Welling — Fri, 05 Oct 2018 08:59:42 -0400

Don't do it, whether you want to hear it or not, you do not fit that mold and will likely be a liability.

Response by MAJ Rj M made Oct 18 at 2018 11:31 AM

MAJ Rj M — Thu, 18 Oct 2018 11:31:44 -0400

I concurr with the 1SG below, except I say because you are a woman...as well as a person. If you're doing it to "break ground" or to be political, then I honestly say you have no integrity and I have nothing more to say to that. Leaving that aside, if you're doing it for you the make sure you really know what you are getting into forget about being male or female (with the exception of how it impacts hygiene in a field environment) and focus on what it means to be an infantry officer, what it means to lead, and what it means to take care of the soldiers under you. The army is hard on its officers, especially its junior officers and being combat arms and especially infantry is extra hard.

Response by LTC Anthony Broussard made Oct 23 at 2018 8:39 PM

LTC Anthony Broussard — Tue, 23 Oct 2018 20:39:57 -0400

28 years an Infantry Officer, Never attended any Basic training, enlisted or officer before I went to Ranger School as a 20 year old ROTC Cadet. Passed 1st try, because there was no recycles for cadets. 60 percent failed. That was the norm back when the Tab meant something. Now that you know what “I” consider Army Infantry Officer material, I will tell you that if you can’t do that, you are already behind the curve and may want to consider another career choice. Why, because I never accepted that anything less should lead my men, and more importantly, my men expected nothing less leading them into combat, in a life and death struggle where there are no “do overs!”

Response by Lt Col John Culley made Oct 24 at 2018 12:53 AM

Lt Col John Culley — Wed, 24 Oct 2018 00:53:59 -0400

A future female infantry officer should make herself indispensable by becoming multilingual. One reserve army officer jumped to regular status and ensured below the zone promotions when he majored in serbo-croation languages and graduated with this skill shortly before the Army became involved in Bosnia and Kosovo.

Response by PO2 Jon Ballentine made Oct 27 at 2018 9:32 AM

PO2 Jon Ballentine — Sat, 27 Oct 2018 09:32:04 -0400

Duck! Best of luck. God Bless. :)

Response by CPT Endre Barath made Oct 31 at 2018 12:43 AM

CPT Endre Barath — Wed, 31 Oct 2018 00:43:49 -0400

Be mentally tough, physically tough and go to Airborne and Ranger School before you go to your unit that you have credentials to and be prepared that you will be looked close by your subordinates as well as your superiors,closer than your male counter parts and accept it instead of fight it, Endre

Response by Cpl Al Brignac made Oct 31 at 2018 9:29 PM

Cpl Al Brignac — Wed, 31 Oct 2018 21:29:34 -0400

Yes. You might (won't) like hearing what I have to say, but as a former military police USMC and infantry (Bradley fighting machine), please listen, watch, and hear what real experienced infantry personnel have to say. Our LT., nice guy as he was, harped on us experienced enlisted, mostly prior service Marines, for not taking our deployment to Afghanistan seious enough and that our casualty rate will probably be 80-90%. Well, this young officer was the only one in our unit killed because he didn't listen to us on Oct 31, 2005.

Response by MSG Carl Clark made Nov 6 at 2018 7:33 PM

MSG Carl Clark — Tue, 06 Nov 2018 19:33:01 -0500

Drink lots of milk for bones, take glucosamine with condroiten for joints, yoga when ever you can for flexibility and reduced injuries, don’t bulk up, but stay strong. Don’t go airborne even if it sounds nice, it’s bad on knees and everything else. Keep your feet on the ground where Infantry boots should be. How you get to the battlefield is of less importance than what you do when you get there. Read-To-Lead! Read History whenever, whereever you can. Try and get to a civilian Wilderness Survival Course, Google “Jack Mountain Survival” it’s in Maine on your own time. If you have a choice of components be an Army National Guard or Reserve Infantry Officer as opposed to Active Duty. This will allow you to control what I call “exposure time”, and increase your ability to attend both military and civilian training that could make you a highly competent Infantry Officer.

Response by CWO2 Frank Slaby made Nov 17 at 2018 9:24 AM

CWO2 Frank Slaby — Sat, 17 Nov 2018 09:24:29 -0500

Sure, join the Navy.

Response by CWO2 Frank Slaby made Nov 17 at 2018 9:25 AM

CWO2 Frank Slaby — Sat, 17 Nov 2018 09:25:18 -0500

Sure, join the Navy.

Response by CWO2 Frank Slaby made Nov 17 at 2018 9:26 AM

CWO2 Frank Slaby — Sat, 17 Nov 2018 09:26:36 -0500

Seriously; listen to your senior NCOs. They did not get to be "senior NCOs" by being stupid.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 18 at 2018 11:57 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 18 Nov 2018 23:57:32 -0500

First off, as a Soldier, let alone an infantry officer, you need to understand that entails a duty to uphold the Constitution. Which coincidentally includes free speech. Therefore, don't think that you can put something on a public forum and tell people to shut up because, "you don't want to hear it!" I'd change THAT specifically attitude before anything else. That mentality will make your future PLT, CO, BN turn against you...

Secondly, you're not a future fuck all...that's the equivalent of me saying I'm the next SMA, but until you've graduated OCS, G2G or whatever program you choose, and the OML is determined all you are is a loud mouth. We (Regimental Rangers) deal with assholes like this all the time. Don't talk about what you are going to be, do it. If you speak up now you look like a fool when you fail.

Really you have a LOT of growing up to do before I would want you as an officer in ANY branch, let alone the Infantry.

If you think you can hack it, I encourage you to go to Ranger school first. If you can't lead troops in a 60 days infantry officer leadership school, well...need I say more?

Response by SSG Nathan Blair made Nov 20 at 2018 10:51 PM

SSG Nathan Blair — Tue, 20 Nov 2018 22:51:36 -0500

Own your mistakes.You will get more respect by saying it was my fault rather than blaming something or someone else.

Response by SFC Timothy Dutcher made Nov 23 at 2018 7:11 AM

SFC Timothy Dutcher — Fri, 23 Nov 2018 07:11:42 -0500

Male or female leader, it doesn't matter, you inherently have much higher standards. You fail to achieve them once, you are done in the infantry. Grunts are relentlessly unforgiving. There is no try, only do.

That being said, there is no slack for an infantry officer. You fail one standard, find a new job because you may not ever earn back the respect and trust. Being a grunt is not a game. Every mistake is magnified and every mistake costs lives at some point.

Grunts are a different breed. Everything you do with them as a leader has to be from a rock solid power base built from competency.

The 800 lb gorilla in the room is you will be judged much harsher. Whether that is fair doesn't really matter. It is what it is. Deal with it.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 30 at 2018 10:49 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 30 Nov 2018 10:49:35 -0500

LT the one thing that always stood out to me with new LT's in the Infantry, they were thirsty for knowledge, if you want to be a successful Infantry Officer focus on these two critical things, Lead and Take care of your soldiers...I know easily said, but, the successful Infantry Officers do exactly that, I once had a Company Commander in the Ranger Bn, who told all the new Platoon Leaders this: "Listen, Learn, and Lead"...remember its not about you succeeding, its about the soldier that you lead succeeding...that's when you will realize the fulfillment of being an Infantry Officer and soldier will follow you anywhere!

Response by SSG Mike Busovicki made Dec 3 at 2018 12:12 PM

SSG Mike Busovicki — Mon, 03 Dec 2018 12:12:09 -0500

Always take care of your troops, and they will make sure the mission is successful. If they feel you are invested in them, they will be more likely to be invested in you.

Response by SFC Lance Wilson made Dec 5 at 2018 4:21 PM

SFC Lance Wilson — Wed, 05 Dec 2018 16:21:47 -0500

You have other choices

Response by LCpl Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 9 at 2018 11:55 PM

LCpl Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 09 Dec 2018 23:55:03 -0500

Because of the different standards for a male and female you need to be a beast to get the respect of the guys under you. You’re army idk what pt stuff y’all do but you need to be twice as good as the best guy in your platoon running hiking pull ups push ups. not to mention the stuff that’s going to pertain to your job and the knowledge that’s going to come with it. Good luck

Response by LCpl Cody Collins made Dec 15 at 2018 6:57 AM

LCpl Cody Collins — Sat, 15 Dec 2018 06:57:40 -0500

As a radio Operator in an infantry platoon, I was no.2 on the snipers hit list right behind you. Sometimes the radio Operator was a snipers favorite target. Infantry is no joke, so make sure you train with a Prc-77 on your back. Even if they don't use those anymore, Request one so when you go running on your 3 mile run. It is a good tool to help you in door let's give you a feel for what your radio operators in your platoons have to go through on top of the Alice pack.

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 15 at 2018 10:19 AM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Dec 2018 10:19:12 -0500

LT Hogan;
1SG Furr is spot on! This is not about being a female in an Infantry unit. This is about leading others into combat. I came across many males that became infantry officers for a multitude of reasons. Most of the time there was an ego element behind their reasons... that became evident and resulted in disappointment for both the leader and those being led.

Take the duty of being an officer seriously (note that I stated "officer" without the label "Infantry" or any other specialty). If it is in your heart, knock yourself out, but be mindful and smart enough to recognize that your platoon sergeant and the first sergeants are the key to your success. Be responsible for carrying your own weight, and be willing to take care of your soldiers, yet be humble enough to acknowledge your shortcomings and limitations. Seek help from your soldiers and superiors, to help you get 'over the hump', but don't make it a habit for them to carry your weight over the same limitations over and over again.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 15 at 2018 12:36 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 15 Dec 2018 12:36:56 -0500

I would say trust your NCOs. In an infantry company, NCOs are the oil that keeps the unit running smoothly to include training (even simple/quick hip-pocket training), planning, and discipline. Above all else, don't micro-manage them, let the NCOs do their thing and enable them to accomplish the missions you give them and you will do fine.

Response by SGT Gabriel Brown made Dec 15 at 2018 12:44 PM

SGT Gabriel Brown — Sat, 15 Dec 2018 12:44:27 -0500

Best advice I can give is to not do it. Here is a list of reasons why not.
1. Hygiene. There is, more often than not, little to no acceptable means of maintaining acceptable hygiene for females in the areas that Infantrymen operate in. This is mostly because of the length of time that we are in the area with minimal amenities. Things like yeast infections and a plethora of other hygiene related circumstances have been proven to run rampant and render a unit combat ineffective. We are often in an area with no means of a proper shower for more than 5 weeks at a time or often longer.

2. Austere conditions: I have witnessed this scenario firsthand. Grunts (infantryman) packed in the back of an AAV for hours nonstop. I've seen everything from a Marine defecating into an MRE bag held by his buddy to pissing in a water bottle while sitting on another Marines lap because the vehicle wasn't going to stop. We're packed over the max amount of people that the vehicle is designed to carry as it is, can you imagine a male having to do this in front of a female, or a female doing this in front of a male?

3. PMS. It is a proven FACT that a female may experience swings in temperament and decision making during this time. The infantry is an MOS where any circumstance, be it controllable or not, that compromises one's ability to soundly make decisions is deemed as combat ineffective. Not saying it's fair, but when lives are on the line we must take every precaution. I wouldn't want to be in a squad with a female squad ldr who's PMSing. Male Marines experience stress and things too, but nature has excluded us from something that is as consistent as PMS.

4. Sex. If anyone thinks that a platoon of grunts isn't going to have some tent action going on when females are ever present, then I'll be the first to tell you that you are naive. It's human nature. So put pregnancy in a combat zone on the platter, and then top it off with STD’s as well the lack of hygiene is a recipe for disaster.

5. Culture: Grunts live in an environment where we tend to go right for the throat in everything we do. Every other word is a curse word, and every slur and profane thing you can possibly think of is thrown about. Hurt feelings or being offended by someone (especially verbally) is non-existent. It is part of our culture. The ability to be yourself unrestrained and without filter is common and necessary. When it comes to winning in battle, no one give a damn how cultured, well rounded, or masagonistic they are. They care about how ruthlessmy effective he is at killing people in an efficient manner. They will never truly respect a female in a command role.

6. Brotherhood: Notice it wasn’t “sisterhood”. There are varying degrees of unit cohesion. High levels of camaraderie is a common one amongst coed units. The highest level of unit cohesion possible is that of brotherhood. You cannot have a brotherhood with a single female included any more than there could exist a sisterhood with a single male included. Within brotherhood there exists a connection that can only be found amongst a group of men who are as close to each other as we are. The bond is forged in misery. It's forged in the knowledge that you will kill another man to save his life. It's forged in knowing undoubtedly that he would do the same for you. It is something that I believe has never been fully understood to this day, but has existed as long as men have gone to battle together. It can only exist amongst them. You can look at the other areas where the military is co-ed, and you will find camaraderie, but not brotherhood. Their camaraderie may be strong enough to tackle most tasks, but those given to the infantry are not one of them. It simply isn't enough. You need a brotherhood to accomplish the feats that are overcome in the infantry mission.

7. Career Enders: The unrelenting amount of true and false harassment accusations at males that may disagree with a female accuser taking advantage of what is an unbalanced zero tolerance policy and you have a recipe for yet more combat ineffectiveness. Not to mention the fraternization that will and has imminently occur. Intimate relationships WILL develop. This will cause rifts amongst the ranks and ultimately lead to combat ineffectiveness, not to mention the paperwork nightmare for some yet to be named entity who will surely be appointed to handle this sort of thing. After all, how is a Company Commander supposed to focus on fire and maneuver of his company, meetings with sheiks, which squad to put on QRF, who is doing who, PFC Scmuckatelli is now preggo and has to go back stateside for maternity leave, five different sexual assault allegations, 3 rape allegations, 4 fraternization allegations, and about 200 verbal harassment allegations?

8. Equality: True equality between the sexes is unattainable in an environment that has no discretion for it. Check the Marine Corps study where they set two battalions against each other in the desert for months, one co-ed and one all male. You see that the Integrated battalion had the floor mopped with them. It was embarrassing really.

9. Physical ability. Now, don't get me wrong, I have seen some females that could probably ball me up into a pretzel. However, this is not true across the board. Most females would not be able to pull my 235lb dead weight body out of a street or a vehicle after I was hit. Tack on 40lbs of gear, 15-20lbs of ammo and weapons and you are looking at toting 300lb man. I know all about the adrenaline studies and all that jazz, but realistically, it's not going to happen. So when a female runs into that ambush zone (as females have no lack of bravery) to pull me out she gets hit struggling to heave me out. Now 2 Marines are out of the fight. This hinders yet again, combat effectiveness. How about carrying an 81mm mortar system for over 20 miles, and then have to fight our enemy upon arrival? I am not saying all male Marines/soldiers could do this either, but not all male Marines/soldiers are grunts.

10. Psychology. Not so much on the female part as it is ours. Let’s say, hypothetically, that myself, Suzie, and Bob are in a firefight, and we are taking heavy small arms and indirect fire. Suzie and I rush to maneuver on the enemy, while Bob lays down suppressive fire. Suzie is torn in half with her entrails hanging out and (like anyone else, male or female) is screaming bloody murder, while I am hit in the leg (also screaming like hell). Bob is psychologically hardwired to rush to help the female instead of the male. It is written in his DNA. So now Bob is KIA en-route to help Suzie (who was dead anyway), Suzie inevitably is KIA, and I bleed out and am also now KIA. So instead of 1 Marine KIA, 3 Marines are KIA. Again, Combat ineffective.

11. Culture, again: Most Infantrymen are between 19 and 24 years of age. They are young, full of testosterone, and full of rhemselves. Most of us have a HUGE problem with female authority. Call it immature, call it insensitive, call it whatever you want. But it is a fact. No, they will not just “grow up” or “get over it”, because they're young kids. Ask them the difference between a zebra and a female Marine /soldier. I'm not saying that it's right, but it's a fact of how the culture is.

12. The Job: Our job is to hunt down men, and kill them. This is done ruthlessly, we blow arms and legs off, we disembowel and extinguish the life of other human beings in an intimate manner. The same is done to us. We kill, and are killed. We see with our own eyes our brothers laid open, intestines and stomach on the ground next to him, with the smell of burning flesh. That's the “job” of an Infantryman. We partake in the most inhumane and barbaric act known to mankind, some of us before we are old enough to drink a beer. It's not pretty, or glorious. It's not the way the video games or the movies portray it to be. It is the most awful thing one can imagine, and it takes a certain caliber of individual to do it.

13. The last point I will make; Survival: Historically, one of the main reasons (and I personally believe the most important one) that women have been kept off of the battlefield is survival. Not on an individual scale, but on a grand one. The ability of a society to endure war, famine, plague, etc., is based purely on the fact that Women give life. They are the most valuable asset that any society or country has. Women are priceless to a society, men are expendable. Why on earth would we expose and make vulnerable our most valuable assets and our key to long term survival? There is a saying that says “Mother is the name of God on the lips of all the children”. I believe this. They are the rock of our existence, and to willingly put them into the fray is unthinkable.
These are only a few of the points that I can come up with off of the top of my head, and it's the main reason that I left the service after being in since 2005. There are many more, and I am but one of many Infantryman who feel this way.
If any of this offends you, then it further illustrates precisely why you shouldn't pursue it. I'm only trying to give you a glimpse into the reality of the thing. Good luck

Response by CPL Sarah Verity made Dec 16 at 2018 9:33 PM

CPL Sarah Verity — Sun, 16 Dec 2018 21:33:51 -0500

I was assigned to the only combat arms opportunity available to women in 2003: Aviation. I was assigned to a rural area in the dessert (water bin "showers" and Porter potties). I attended airborne school, which is something I recommend because "speaking airborne" is itself a place in a special community and I felt it made me more 'credible' with the guys. I served at a time (2003-2006) when people actually thought that females had some special power to create a force field out of a chain link fence and therefore never be seriously injured or killed. I was injured in a mortar attack just like the other 19 men that day. Shrapnel doesn't care who you are. In combat arms you WILL be in harms way. I can't tell you how many surface to air missles were thrown at me. I also had a pilot dragged on CNN. It is a serious choice to make. I just happened to be put in aviation (no choice) after being mistakenly assigned to 4th brigade combat team (they thought that because I was coming from ft. Benning they were getting a man, lol. They were desperate to fill combat arms units so off to aviation I went. My job was the ground convoy where we collected the remains of those KIA. As many a a dozen in a single crash all bagged and tagged while they planned to ambush us on the way out. My infantry friends told me my experience was far worse than theirs, but no far off. If any of this sounds like too much, it's OK to move on to something like... maybe field artillery. Serving your county is an honorable endeavor so never be ashamed if you end up a record keeper. Those men will enter the VA happy to see good record keeping. Most of mine we lost or misplaced. If you can handle the field three weeks at a time (or months), have expert marksmanship and top scores on PT, go for it. If you struggle with any three of those, I suggest you reconsider something more realistic. Best of luck to you! The who "men rule, girls drool" is largely over. Don't forget to have fun and enjoy what you have while you have it and just know "Any day above ground is a good day". Finance transfers well to civi life.

Response by SGT Ernest Huerta made Dec 17 at 2018 11:24 AM

SGT Ernest Huerta — Mon, 17 Dec 2018 11:24:31 -0500

Infantry Officers must be prepared to send soldiers, under their command and without prejudice,
to their death's. You cannot delegate this responsibility out of sentiment. Company Grade Officers are probably closer to these soldiers than any other officer, especially at the platoon level. They get to know their men better, their histories and family backgrounds better than anyone else. During combat officers must make fast decisions while being "another rifle". You live together, eat together and share experiences of terror and sorrow together. After fire-fights with the enemy driven off, there will be casualties, soldiers you know, but worse than that are the KIAs. Once remains are secured for removal they must first be positively identified as conditions allow. This responsibility is that of the OIC. Anyone can grow used to sleeping on the ground, in the open, eating cold food and at some point drinking putrid water. There is no privacy nor personal cleanliness if water becomes rationed. Clean clothes might be available once a week. Some female Infantry Officers may be able to adapt to harsh conditions and responsibilities, but there will be a price to pay. Some of this is from a bygone era, but not all. I've always held the Infantry soldier in the highest esteem. This does not
exclude other soldiers in the Combat Arms and eligible to wear the coveted CIB.

Response by CPT Maria Burns made Dec 17 at 2018 8:49 PM

CPT Maria Burns — Mon, 17 Dec 2018 20:49:56 -0500

This is the advice I wish I'd received years ago as a young officer:
1. Meet the standards for your specialty. You want to be Infantry? Hump that hundred pound ruck just as well as the guys. In fact, exceed the standards.
2. There's a difference between gossip and constructive criticism. Learn to tell the two apart.
3. You're going to be alone a lot of the time. Perhaps not literally, but in spirit. People are expecting you to lead them, and while you can be friendly, you can't really be friends. Don't hang out with your enlisted.
4. Learn your supply chain. Know what you're signing for and where it is, especially if it's sensitive or valuable.
5. People are going to demand a lot of you. Learn when to say no.
6. Respect your NCOs. They've been around a lot longer than you, no matter how old you are.
7. That being said, know which NCOs are solid people and which may not necessarily have the knowledge/character qualities you seek.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 18 at 2018 1:42 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 18 Dec 2018 13:42:43 -0500

Look out for your troops. Deflect as much BS as possible from higher up. Listen to your NCOs and lead from the front. Most importantly, and this is the same advice I received when I was commissioned and which I give to all young officers and NCOs is "Don't be an asshole".

That single rule pretty much sums up all that is required. It includes treating everyone above and below you with respect, not ordering others to do anything you aren't willing to do yourself, and always have your soldiers' back.

You'll do fine, and thank you for stepping up and leading the way. I'm sure you will prove the naysayers wrong.

Response by CPL Gary De Mars made Dec 21 at 2018 9:34 PM

CPL Gary De Mars — Fri, 21 Dec 2018 21:34:53 -0500

Infantry can be a challenge as Non-comm and as an Officer. I have found that if your going to be Infantry be ready to walk everywhere. Don't try to ramrod on your first day. Had to help many new officers see what really works and what doesn't. In real life respect means more than fear. You get you platoons respect, they will dig a mountain for you. Make sure to get the NCO's thoughts as well. Then what ever the plan don't be wishy-washy. Firm but listen. Even in Mechanized we walked every where. 50 to 70 pound rucks was the norm. Very little sleep, and very little comfort. Let the NCO chew heads off for you when needed. Rock and roll there Mam it is an adventure for sure.

Response by SFC Larry Jones made Dec 24 at 2018 12:16 AM

SFC Larry Jones — Mon, 24 Dec 2018 00:16:06 -0500

Improve your upper body strength constantly.

Response by SPC Stephen Walsh made Dec 24 at 2018 8:15 PM

SPC Stephen Walsh — Mon, 24 Dec 2018 20:15:33 -0500

Listen to your NCO's They have been there done that and got the T-shirt.

Response by COL Jim Lincoln made Dec 27 at 2018 9:27 AM

COL Jim Lincoln — Thu, 27 Dec 2018 09:27:04 -0500

physical condition/strength important--the main reason we thought for many years women could not make it in the Inf

Response by SSG Mike Angelo made Dec 28 at 2018 3:24 PM

SSG Mike Angelo — Fri, 28 Dec 2018 15:24:44 -0500

I would say Go for it! Genuine leadership is being your best self. Don't worry about those negative antics, as they will always be there. Think positive and inspire others to do their best too. Come on...You can do this.

Response by MAJ Hugh Blanchard made Dec 31 at 2018 9:18 PM

MAJ Hugh Blanchard — Mon, 31 Dec 2018 21:18:41 -0500

OK, but if you want to do that, you had better be in damned good physical condition and be able to run and ruck forever. You will be leading the best young men of Jacksonian America, the U.S. Army Infantry, and they deserve the best from their officers. Learn tactics extremely well, because your people need a sharp leader who can bring them home with minimal damage. And as 1SG Furr notes below, you should do this because it's your calling, not your ambition. Officers serve for their soldiers, not for themselves.

Response by Cpl Bill Johnson made Jan 1 at 2019 10:01 AM

Cpl Bill Johnson — Tue, 01 Jan 2019 10:01:06 -0500

Be strong enough to do the following: Carry your own gear; know how to read a map and call for fire; listen to your NCO's, but don't take any BS from them; DO NOT FRATERNIZE WITH YOUR SOLDIERS. Enjoy it. The tip of the spear is the place to be. Good luck.

Response by 1LT Peter Duston made Jan 1 at 2019 3:00 PM

1LT Peter Duston — Tue, 01 Jan 2019 15:00:10 -0500

Just practice the basic rule of leadership taught to me by an old 1SG - "Mission first, People Always" "Be a SOLDIER, Know your "stuff" and Do your job!"

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 4 at 2019 11:36 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Fri, 04 Jan 2019 23:36:08 -0500

Lose that attitude, the gender card, and your apparent rapidity for which you chose to pull them.
ASAP.

The entitlement and fakery doesn't do your reputation any good either, Cadet. IF, you are even a Cadet.

You obviously aren't an officer, or Infantry officer, not even a mere LT, but you are calling yourself that already. Why should anyone assume you told the truth about being a Cadet either?

Have you never seen the kids that show up to Airborne school with their wings already in their pocket, or even better, already tattooed?

Have you ever bothered to look into the career path of the Infantry, and other combat arms, LTs that fail, or neglect to go to Ranger School? Infantry Officer and Ranger School go together like peas in a pod, the most non-abusive, accurate term I can come up with. Peas are green, peas are a group, all peas look the same and have the same experience, bound together in their own little world of the pod. You are not likely to ever be a pea, especially as you are claiming pea status before ever even setting foot in the schoolhouse.

You need to do about 1,000 correct push ups right now for your illegitimate claims, unless you want to go see the real grownups about your fraud.

Response by LTC Edward Clark made Jan 8 at 2019 11:44 AM

LTC Edward Clark — Tue, 08 Jan 2019 11:44:35 -0500

1SG Furr Offers Sage Advice. Others have also advised on the reasons to do it or not. You have to be first in everything, first through the door, on every ruck march, every PT test. The only time you can be last is in the chow line. You will have a hard time doing this, just because the standards you will face to become an Infantry Officer are minimum standards and your ruck will never weigh 55 lbs. Go to Ranger School. Trust your NCO's but understand that you are the moral compass for that platoon. As a retired Infantry and Special Forces Officer, I can tell you that if you live this life for 20+ years in a manner commensurate with a good leader, you will likely be physically decimated. That's the issue with change like this, they are quick to gauge the incoming effects with no real concern with what it does to you over 20+ years.

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 9 at 2019 1:56 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 13:56:37 -0500

2LT Private RallyPoint Member this was posted 8 months ago, and for some reason it just popped into my email as a "highlight of this week in RP." Can we please get an update on what has or is happening? You obviously are no longer a SPC or Cadet. Did you in fact branch Infantry?

Response by SGT Joey Landry made Jan 19 at 2019 2:50 PM

SGT Joey Landry — Sat, 19 Jan 2019 14:50:06 -0500

If you do it make sure you are strong enough to carry all your own gear and be able to drag a wounded comrade to safety. If you can’t do these basic tasks then try an MOS with wheels. Otherwise some poor mother or wife will have to live with your failings as a Infantry Officer.

Response by CPT Robert Boshears made Jan 19 at 2019 4:41 PM

CPT Robert Boshears — Sat, 19 Jan 2019 16:41:46 -0500

If you can carry a wounded soldier and effectively return fire, go for it. If not, don’t go Infantry.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2019 4:56 PM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Sun, 20 Jan 2019 16:56:40 -0500

Since you posted this you have commissioned. Let me first say, Congratulations. I won’t tell you how to be an infantry officer because I am not infantry. I will offer some recommendations that are probably already shared. 1. Charge your Senior NCO with the task to not let you fail; then listen to them. 2. Become an expert at being infantry. 3. Get the most information you can with the time available, and make a decision. 4. Don’t be the boss, be a leader. When faced with disciplinary decisions, try to find out why things happened; not just what happened. 5. Assume “prudent” risk. 6. Note that higher rank does not make you better than subordinates. It just means you have different jobs. Stay humble.

These are in no particular order. Best of luck to you.

Response by PO2 Henry Kaczmarek made Jan 20 at 2019 10:21 PM

PO2 Henry Kaczmarek — Sun, 20 Jan 2019 22:21:16 -0500

I won't tell you don't do it b/c the Army will let you anyway. I served in Marine Infantry. Much of what I went through I can't see too many women hacking it.
Here's an idea---Since the objective of physicality should be "after a 20 KM hike with a full ruck you should be ready to deploy and fight at the end of the hike".
If you can make the 20KM fast march, and be able to pick up a 225 lb infantryman and carry him 200 yards to safety, you just might pack the gear. Everything else you can learn.

I saw the video of the first 2 females in Ranger School. One finished the 20KM, and promptly fell out and ended up in the ambulance. The other fell just a few yards from the end, and ended up in the Ambulance too. If that's how you finish, forget the infantry. It's just not for you. Meanwhile I'm certain those 2 female officers are sitting at desks somewhere sporting Ranger Tabs.

Response by LTC Leonard M. Manning, Sr made Jan 21 at 2019 12:47 AM

LTC Leonard M. Manning, Sr — Mon, 21 Jan 2019 00:47:41 -0500

When I was commissioned I had already served on active duty for almost 6 years and had been promoted to Sergeant (E5). However, the best advice I recieved from the Senior NCO in my college ROTC class (SFC Hobbs) was that I didn't know everything and I should listen to the counsel of my Platoon Sergeant. When I got to my first duty assignment I made it a point to take my Sergeant to lunch and to discuss what I viewed as his jnob for the foreseeable future. As k started talking I could se the look of distress on his face. This look changed as I told him that I expected him to teach me what I needed to know in order to do the job as an effective Engineer Platoon Leader. So for the next 3.5 years he mentored and protected me and I lead the platoon and protected them. My greatest ally during the time as SFC Eugene Farmer.

Response by SGT Kyle Bickley made Jan 21 at 2019 7:14 AM

SGT Kyle Bickley — Mon, 21 Jan 2019 07:14:23 -0500

Maintain military discipline at all times in front of the enlisted. Be professional at all times. Remember you are not their friend. When they train you train! And that means everything! Troops follow leaders, not paper pushing, excuse making dumbasses! Read up on Patton's method of fighting, and leadership, use it like your Bible .

Response by 1LT Shaun Ray made Jan 21 at 2019 10:43 AM

1LT Shaun Ray — Mon, 21 Jan 2019 10:43:28 -0500

I would guess "future" means you have not graduated IBOLC or Ranger School yet? Branching into the Infantry and being qualified is different. Well anyways, advice for a newly minted Officer. As the 1SG said you have to leave gender out of the equation. I know from experience that when I went through AROTC that gender meant nothing during Infantry STX lanes. There is a specific way of conducting whatever the particular mission is using battle drills. Nothing changes much from that in the Infantry world. If you start thinking of yourself as female then that will be your excuse for differential treatment. Then there is the FACT that we ARE physiologically different. Men are capable of things women may struggle with and vice versa. While on the line women were being integrated into the Infantry and Scouts. It seemed to bring a lot more sexual harassment briefings, EO briefings, several erroneous cases against Soldiers and Leaders (to make examples), and a general consumption of time that could have been spent on training for combat. The line platoons would run as fast as they could to leave the female Soldiers behind or make unreasonable physical training schedules to wear down the other sex. I am sure this is not as prevalent as it was since Soldiers were likely punished or told to operate differently to accommodate the weakest link male or female. This may be trouble for you as the other women on the line may come to you for preferential treatment or coddling. The moment you you treat any Soldier "different" then the rest you have lost that respect if any that you may have established. Remember, this is now a gender neutral Army.

Now, you know some as a new Junior Officer but you do not know the line. Your PSG and Squad/Section leaders will be your new mentors. Nothing different from the NCO's that were training you to be an Officer. Additionally, just like BOLC you will need to learn and train for every position. Do not think for a minute you are too good to lay down C-Wire or help mount the .50 cal. Also, you MUST go to Ranger School to be any kind of leader in the Infantry. Be prepared for long dirty missions where hygiene is a thing of the past. If you smell good then you will have failed. The good news after a week or so you will forget that you are gross or at least become numb to it.

Learn supply chain management. Inventory everything twice. Make sure you keep a watchful eye on your property books always. Hand receipt everything. Paperwork is your bread and butter as an Officer. Your ability to keep organized and process requests is critical. I have met many Officers that the inbox and books are not a high priority for them because they do not care. Don't be that kind of Officer.

Lastly, are you ready to hear the crack of bullets around you, an IED exploding over your vehicle, mortars walking in on you, rockets whistling by your position, talking on four or five different radio nets, calling for fire, calling in MEDEVACs for dead or wounded, being able to switch it off when you capture or kill the enemy, seeing Soldiers mentally break, listening to enemy wives scream at you because you just wasted their husbands, being the highly valued target of the enemy, and keeping your composure as a leader from the front. Male or female Combat Arms is difficult. This is the reality and I did not want to sugar coat or give you some blanket political Officer answer.

Now, there are many positives when in Garrison as you go back to being tidy, military balls, training, dealing with petty Soldier problems, doing more paperwork, maybe getting some staff time, lots of PT, getting ready to deploy again, etc. You might even be placed in to a POG unit even though you are combat arms and not even be on the line. The bottom line about The Line, male or female, if you cannot stand the heat stay the hell out of the kitchen. The line is no place for the weak minded without a thick skin. Most Enlisted and Officer alike say "I wanna be Infantry" when they have no idea. Most do not stay in when the reality sets in that life. There are easier occupations in the Army the translate better on the outside. If you are going to the Infantry you might consider a branch detail option. That way you get the best out of the line then go to a functional area. However, you might just get pushed along in the Infantry because everybody is too scared to commit political suicide. I hope this genuine answer helps you out. Good Luck!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 22 at 2019 9:54 AM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 09:54:33 -0500

Make the Ranger Handbook your new bible, listen to your SLs and accept feedback from your PSG get assigned to the Recon/Sniper section and have fun doing it!

Response by COL John Hudson made Jan 22 at 2019 11:38 AM

COL John Hudson — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 11:38:37 -0500

I"m very disappointed with some of the commentary seen here concerning women in the military, and specifically in an Infantry position. There are too many extinct dinosaur attitudes out there. I enlisted in 1966 (Infantry) and while in Vietnam accepted a direct commission to 1st Lieutenant (Infantry). I've been in three wars - boots on the ground and believe from that experience I can provide some meaningful input on the issue so I'll be brief. Removal of the glass ceiling on all opportunities within the military services was long overdue. I learned a valuable lesson that not all women want to be mothers. I've been in combat with female soldiers taller and physically stronger than me. I've seen and spoken with female soldiers fielding 5.56 SAW and .50 cal M2 machine guns who demonstrated conclusively they were expert on those weapons and would just as quickly dent the head of any sexist attitude with one. I've interacted with female gun ship pilots and lest anyone out there overlook the point - all of those females were tasked to pass the same rigorous physical fitness tests as I was. Those of you out there still on active service need to go back and review their enlistment oath - specifically that sentence about obeying the orders of Officers placed above them - an oath that is GENDER NONSPECIFIC. Here's some good advice from a very old soldier - screw up and disrespect your FEMALE Commander and you'll find yourself on the bad end of Administrative Punishment at best or a Court Martial at worst. Otherwise, anyone out there who can't appreciate or accept females in the military services should probably look for employment elsewhere.

Response by SSG Gary Grose made Jan 22 at 2019 6:19 PM

SSG Gary Grose — Tue, 22 Jan 2019 18:19:40 -0500

Stick to making sandwiches. Leave the combat to the men.

Response by CW2 Ross Ivey made Jan 23 at 2019 4:25 PM

CW2 Ross Ivey — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 16:25:45 -0500

Watch COURAGE UNDER FIRE. Can't lead those unwilling to follow. Figure out who they are.

Response by LTC John Badtone made Jan 24 at 2019 1:00 PM

LTC John Badtone — Thu, 24 Jan 2019 13:00:41 -0500

A lot of wisdom from the senior enlisted Soldiers. It would behoove you to heed their comments.

Response by LtCol Andrew Horne made Jan 25 at 2019 11:24 AM

LtCol Andrew Horne — Fri, 25 Jan 2019 11:24:46 -0500

I'm a Marine Corps infantry Officer and my primary advice for any future Infantry Officer is be physically prepared to excel in everything you expect your people to do. Many of them will be unable to keep up and you will be expected to be able to physically carry them if necessary. If you are perceived as physically weak it will adversely affect everything else you try to do. Good luck.

Response by CCMSgt Joe Dehorty made Jan 25 at 2019 11:48 AM

CCMSgt Joe Dehorty — Fri, 25 Jan 2019 11:48:24 -0500

If you don't want to hear "Don't do it". Why pose the question? You should want to hear all comments and take them for what they are worth. I think with a biased attitude you may have problems.

Response by CCMSgt Joe Dehorty made Jan 25 at 2019 11:51 AM

CCMSgt Joe Dehorty — Fri, 25 Jan 2019 11:51:27 -0500

If you don't want to hear “don’t do it”, why ask the question? It appears the you are only looking for positive comments that support your position. If you really want to get tips, seek ALL responses.

Response by 1SG Clifford Hendricks made Jan 25 at 2019 9:10 PM

1SG Clifford Hendricks — Fri, 25 Jan 2019 21:10:40 -0500

Listen to your First Sergeant. He will keep you alive in more ways than one. By the time you make Major, you will probably be smart enough to keep yourself alive. When you get higher then, listen to your Sergeant Major. And don't try to make them think that you are better or smarter then them.

Response by CW2 Richard English made Jan 26 at 2019 9:25 AM

CW2 Richard English — Sat, 26 Jan 2019 09:25:51 -0500

First I would like to say congratulations for choosing the best branch in the military. You are going to learn so much, develop some of the strongest relationships with your team and share some of the worst times in your life. Use all of your God given talents to get your team home safely and trust your instincts. When you make Captain, come back and let us know how it went. Thank you for severing our Great Nation. Good luck

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2019 7:20 PM

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 26 Jan 2019 19:20:48 -0500

Be technically and tactically precise. Trust your NCOS

Response by MAJ R. Andrew Hoskinson made Jan 27 at 2019 6:03 PM

MAJ R. Andrew Hoskinson — Sun, 27 Jan 2019 18:03:53 -0500

First of all, hearing a 2LT say something as arrogant as “l don’t want to hear it” is off-putting to say the least. Also, if you end up being branched Infantry, you will be an Infantry Officer, not a “female Infantry Officer.” I assure you, the enemy will make no distinction between the two. The key question is this: are you prepared, mentally, physically, morally, and emotionally, to lead a platoon of 40 11B soldiers in combat? And I am talking about infantry combat: up-close-and-personal kinetic contact with enemy soldiers who are in your face, not “combat” because you spent a year in Bagram. If the answer is not an emphatic “yes,” then you should not branch Infantry.

Response by CPT Don Cox made Jan 27 at 2019 9:21 PM

CPT Don Cox — Sun, 27 Jan 2019 21:21:21 -0500

I understand that my experience as a Small Unit Infantry Commander is 'ancient history' (1965-7) but it's probably true today. Your job is to carry out your orders and kill the enemy.....nothing more or less. And once you have done that and re-entered the civilian labor force there aren't a lot of job opportunities for those skills. Think about that unless you are determined to make the Army a career.

Response by SSG Dave Johnston made Feb 1 at 2019 4:45 PM

SSG Dave Johnston — Fri, 01 Feb 2019 16:45:17 -0500

It's been 8/9 months since this popped up, How you holding up LT?

Response by SGT Nickolas Ortiz made Feb 18 at 2019 9:12 PM

SGT Nickolas Ortiz — Mon, 18 Feb 2019 21:12:45 -0500

Sorry... but if you don't want to hear "don't do it", then you're NOT cut out for the Infantry. It's not for everyone... and you'd better have thick skin. What snowflake would whine about someone telling them "don't do it"? I've said that about re-upping (even though I did) and getting married (even though I did). Face it... if you have to say that, then you're not infantry material. So don't do it...

Response by LTC Gary Earls made Feb 19 at 2019 12:57 PM

LTC Gary Earls — Tue, 19 Feb 2019 12:57:06 -0500

What happens if you are on a mission and that "time of the month" comes?? The mission has to go on. There is a difference between men and women. Women don't have the upper body strength that men do. This political correctness is going to get people killed in combat. Cadet, you are letting your ego getting ahead of what you are capable of. I went though Infantry Officer Candidate School in 1967. We started with 270 guys in my class and graduated 160 after 23 weeks. Ten of my classmates are on the Vietnam Wall. It was pressure every day. Can you stand up to the pressure?? Think again about your future.

Response by CW5 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 21 at 2019 4:16 PM

CW5 Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 21 Feb 2019 16:16:45 -0500

Be the best Officer that you can be! Lead the way; be an example; accomplish the mission; take care of the troops; don't hesitate to make a decision; rely on the advice/opinions your NCOs; and, remember, there is NO wrong in always doing the right thing. Best wishes - John O'Donoghue, IOBC 2-85

Response by Sgt Charles Welling made Mar 20 at 2019 9:56 AM

Sgt Charles Welling — Wed, 20 Mar 2019 09:56:14 -0400

Yes! You are about to enter an institution that is male dominated whether you like it or not. It IS male dominated because of size, strength, athletic abilities and mental make up, males have been and still are the most aggressive and suited for warfare. Doesn't mean you can't do it, does mean you will be a LIKELY weak link in terms of getting the job done ON THE RIGHT LEVEL. So, proceed, assess your abilities and if they don't measure up and they endanger others, get out. More especially, if YOUR PRESENCE is a sexual distraction, you are doing no one any favors by being there, IT'S A WAR FIGHTING UNIT and everyone there deserves the best possible scenario to live.

Response by SFC Patrick Trujillo made Mar 21 at 2019 12:25 AM

SFC Patrick Trujillo — Thu, 21 Mar 2019 00:25:00 -0400

There's a lot of comments about getting your PT standards up to the level of your young joes. While being able to PT to their level is important, that's not what will make or break you. My boys broke several butterbars as well as 1LT's because that went into our platoon with the wrong attitude. I say our because it wasn't theirs and it won't be yours. Not until you earn our respect. Rank will get you position. Respect gets you men who will follow your word like the bible. You want our respect, be fair. Be impartial. Talk shit with us when the situation dictates, control it when it doesn't. Know what you're talking about when you speak. If you try to talk about something you don't know, trust me, your bullshit will be called out. Always and I stress always stand up for your Soldiers and accept their faults as your own to the CoC. After that, behind closed doors, fix the situation. As an NCO, you should already understand how shitty it is when an officer doesn't listen to someone who has already been there and that. Now that you're an officer, listen to your NCO's, especially your PSG. We've seen more, done more, forgotten more and daaaaaaaaamn sure messed up more than you could ever dream. We are a wealth of knowledge there to help you if you listen when you should. You're going to get shit because you're a butterbar. You're going to get shit because you're a female. You're going to get even more shit because you're a female butterbar in an infantry unit. You better have thick skin or the harder you try to make their lives, the worse they will make yours.

I'll finish with this. Remember, it is the PSG's platoon until you show his guys that you've earned their respect enough to be called your guys.

Response by SGM Robin Johnson made Apr 21 at 2019 12:44 PM

SGM Robin Johnson — Sun, 21 Apr 2019 12:44:30 -0400

Stop referring to yourself as a female officer. You are an infantry officer, full stop. You don't hear others referring to themselves as 'male infantry officers', right? If necessary, even saying ' a woman who is becoming an infantry officer' is better. Words do matter, and endorsing phrasing that suggests there are two categories of infantry officers perpetuates a problem. It's a very minor issue, and not worth making a huge issue over if others do it, but if you consistently refer to yourself, act, and expect to be treated, as just another infant officer, it sends the right message.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Apr 21 at 2019 2:36 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 21 Apr 2019 14:36:18 -0400

Use the TLPs, issue simple OPORDs, Find an Infantry TACSOP, Train on actions on contact, definitely conduct a hands on sensitive items inventory before you move out. Don't volunteer to be the movement officer. I will not mention the relationship with soldiers and NCOs as I think I would be beating a dead horse.

Response by SGT James Colbert made Apr 22 at 2019 10:07 AM

SGT James Colbert — Mon, 22 Apr 2019 10:07:04 -0400

Well ma'am.....being an army sergeant with the 10th Mountain Div...who has train a "butter bar". The only two suggestion i can give you is:
Always listen and trust your NCO...especially your Platoon and First Sergeant. We are not here to screw you over. Your success is dependent on the success of your NCO support chain. We do not succeed, unless you do. Always now the regs but be flexible, don't "brow" beat anyone..always find out rhe root of the problem. Always be prepared to take a ass chewing for you soliders, no matter what, good bad or indifferent.
The second thing is and i learned this, if you are eager to learn, your NCO will be eager to teach. If you think you know everything, nobody will help you, which goes back to the above, Your success is NCO success. They are hand in hand..nobody on the team takes victory or success alone. DONT BE A BLUE FALCON. Ask the older army folks what a blue falcon is if you dont know. Books are not always as smart as experience. "KISS..keep it simple stupid " there is the right way, wrong way and the Army way. Right way is not always the right way or the Army way.
Ill end this here, because i lost my train of thought.

Response by PFC John Roscoe made Apr 24 at 2019 5:23 PM

PFC John Roscoe — Wed, 24 Apr 2019 17:23:49 -0400

back in my day, ('77) women were only beginning to be integrated into the ranks. It was a cluster-fuk, and exactly what you'd expect putting a minority of females in with males, 40 years ago. Girls were calling our Di's by their first names and totally getting over, the standards went to shit. When I got to a permanent duty station it was division HQ- when we deployed to the field the girls put their weapons in plastic bags so they wouldn't get dirty. I was a medic, and every time a field problem came-up their was a spike in sick-call "female problems." in those days if a women wanted out, they just got knocked-up. I know stuff has changed in the Army and in the society. This generation (men and women) both are open to seeing who can lead whatever gender, sexual preference, race or religion. It's always about being real and respect. Just think to yourself of all the people you've ever known and the few, if any, you'd trust with your life, and your mission- that's it.

Response by SPC Cesar Freytes made Apr 25 at 2019 12:48 PM

SPC Cesar Freytes — Thu, 25 Apr 2019 12:48:14 -0400

The first thing you did right was ask for advice regardless of MOS good luck.

Response by 1LT Luke Flowers made May 2 at 2019 2:40 AM

1LT Luke Flowers — Thu, 02 May 2019 02:40:49 -0400

Don’t make excuses.
Learn by listening, observing and doing.
Get your Ranger Tab.
Lead by Example.
Don’t be a politician and try to earn everyone’s favor or even respect. You’re not there to impress people or convince anyone you’re worthy.

Be worthy.

Be the difference for your Soldiers.

Listen to your NCO’s; unless they are being cowards or weak or full of bullshit than call those NCO’s out with the support of your Senior NCO’s.

Ask your 1SG what they think and listen.

Make time for your 1SG and Platoon Sergeant and Squad Leaders.

Mentor your Team Leaders through your Platoon Sergeants and Squad Leaders.

Mentor your Medic, FO and RTO with your Platoon Sergeant.

Make solutions for your XO and Commander, not more problems.

Be cool with and support all support personnel so you can always square away and hook up your Unit.

Make sure you, The WSL, the PSG and the Squad leaders are always tracking together. Anyone of them may have to assume your position and you will end up switching hats sometimes for meetings and tasks from higher and in the day to day business of leading and training and taking care of Soldiers.

Listen to your Squad Leaders and Soldier but never let them get too comfortable or too familiar. You do have to keep the line as an Officer. One mistake I made was being too soft on certain NCO’s because I was one. Have empathy but don’t be afraid to crush someone not meeting standards if you need to; just do it with compassion.

Don’t be afraid to let your hair down and joke. *at your own risk because there are always shitbags that will look to exploit, misconstrue and get butthurt or blow shit out of proportion because the LT or the PSG to the Squad Leader Or Team Leader made a joke and they didn’t think it was funny.

Also don’t be afraid to fall on a sword if you think it’s worth it. Again you’re not there to be a politician even though some of your peers and other Officers are all about that bullshit.

Train hard and realistically but also have fun. Make the Army more fun that lame. Have a solid cool shit/bull shit ratio in your training schedule as much as possible.

Enjoy they cheesy stuff like the traditions and ceremonies. Too many “I’m a super serious Badass Operator” Egomaniac types laming the Infantry up already. You’ll never fit their mold so don’t try and be yourself. Kick ass at Infantry tasks and talk a little shit while you do it.

You’re there to lead America’s Sons and Daughters and that is a very special honor and privilege. Never Forget that.

Get your hands dirty. Outwork your peers and when you can say that you’ve effectively trained your platoon to operate fine without you; then you’ve did your job.

Hope that helps. Best of Luck Sis.

Response by LTC Wayne Dandridge made May 2 at 2019 3:45 PM

LTC Wayne Dandridge — Thu, 02 May 2019 15:45:49 -0400

Best of luck Ashley. Perhaps this definition which is in the all five-star reviewed and award winning Military History and Action Book, BLADES OF THUNDER (Book One) will help.

Definition of US Army Infantry in Vietnam!
Enlisting, training, and learning. Deploying, landing, and assigning. Training, reconing, and patrolling. Sweating, hoping, wishing, and praying; planning, coordinating, following, and leading. Running and waiting. Flying, fearing, missing, taking, and retaking. Anticipating; shaking, locking, and loading. Jumping, assaulting, shooting, taking, and retaking.

Crawling, sweating, listening, scratching, sneaking, taking and retaking. Searching, attacking, bayoneting, taking, and retaking. Resting, recuperating, firing, throwing, suffocating, slogging, mortaring, cursing, and swimming. Fainting, fumbling, cutting, and sliding. Climbing, observing, carrying, shelling, and loving. Crying, infiltrating, slogging, ambushing, searching, and destroying. Y yearning, coughing, craving, taking, and retaking.

Complaining, begging, blasting, smoking, resupplying, and fighting; falling, swearing, drinking, directing, and blasting. Digging, building, grieving, praying, yelling, taking, and retaking. Inserting, bleeding, reckoning, blessing, toking, and extracting. Thanking, humping, wailing, winning, losing, taking, and retaking.

Vomiting, securing, slapping, pulling, observing, releasing, tapping, and shooting. Dragging, lacking, lobbing, loathing, hating, and Vietnamizing. Foaming, frothing, fortifying, fumbling, taking and retaking. Evacuating, extracting, excruciating, advancing, and retreating. Wading, wobbling, wanting, washing, and never drying. Voiding, vomiting, mourning, exhilarating, and suppressing. Surprising, confusing, drenching, taking, and retaking.

Digging, dogging, remembering, and forgetting. Breathing, blowing, bleeding, surviving, taking, and retaking. Chilling, falling, peeing, day dreaming, binging, breaking, taking, and retaking. Worrying, wounding, hurting, and dying. Bloating, stinking, bagging, and draping. Wailing, sobbing, saluting, honoring, folding, and presenting; and burying, suffering, mourning, and grieving!
Sincerely,

W. Larry Dandridge, LTC (Retired) US Army and Editor with TVV Publishing LLC

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2019 2:13 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 06 May 2019 14:13:41 -0400

Be sure you can max the PT test for males aged 17-21. You are going into an entrenched brotherhood that does not want you there. Most of them feel like you won’t be able to hack it because they are of the belief that females can’t handle the stress that the Infantry puts on the body. Allot of men can’t handle it.
That said, there is no reason why you can’t succeed if you understand the challenges ahead. Leaders lead from the front. As long as you do that you will do fine! Oh yeah, regardless of what branch you end up in, listen to your senior NCO’s and learn to have a thick skin, you’ll need it.

Response by 2LT Earl Dean made May 12 at 2019 12:21 PM

2LT Earl Dean — Sun, 12 May 2019 12:21:25 -0400

The best thing i know of for any new officer. Listen! Keep your opinions to yourself and listen to your senior NCO,s, you will learn fast they have been there and done what you will be seeking to do. And finally C Y A. Good luck butter bar!

Response by LCpl Stephen Arnold made May 24 at 2019 1:01 PM

LCpl Stephen Arnold — Fri, 24 May 2019 13:01:36 -0400

Pack extra socks and ensure your joe's are adequately hydrated.

Response by MSG William Hesser made May 25 at 2019 1:55 PM

MSG William Hesser — Sat, 25 May 2019 13:55:35 -0400

Having worked with females in various deployments, there is no problem of them not being able to fight or do their job.
The big issue is the willingness of the female to pull you own weight, no matter what. not expecting anyone else to take up the slack but willing to jump in and 'lend the hand' as needed. Yes we have had our share of snibblers including the males who don't want to lift a finger, but we usually weed them out quickly.
The biggest concern, as we have already seen, is how females are treated by the enemy if captured. This is a major concern by everyone all the way up the chain of command and we don't want to let that happen.

Response by SFC Richard Bensen made May 26 at 2019 9:49 PM

SFC Richard Bensen — Sun, 26 May 2019 21:49:33 -0400

Guess I'll say to you good luck..being a grunt for all my years it ain't for everyone.. I will say this though being dirty,nasty,mileage on your feet,and bonding with my fellow GI s will be forever a part of my life.

Response by CWO2 David Bertoldo made May 29 at 2019 8:38 AM

CWO2 David Bertoldo — Wed, 29 May 2019 08:38:04 -0400

i come from old combat veteran view women in combat is wrong just like it has been during my years as a cop Its men's nature to protect women in a fight they just don't pack the punch

Response by SPC Vince Dunn made May 29 at 2019 8:40 PM

SPC Vince Dunn — Wed, 29 May 2019 20:40:07 -0400

Do not get to any infantry unit and parade yourself around as a fresh LT,
Get your platoon together (away from the other platoons) and have a human talk with them. OK, you graduated West Point, and learned "BH the book" techniques... Ask them to TEACH YOU HOW ITS REALLY DONE. No different than graduating a regular college and getting a new job and the boss telling you to "go do your job"... And only knowing " by the book" and it don't really work that way, ya end up in the office getting an ear full of how bad you just messed up.
Talk to your Platoon , let them know you want to learn what they know, not just what west point taught you.
Earn their respect, don't just demand it when you get there (because of your rank).
End of my rant.

Response by GySgt Thomas Vick made Jun 2 at 2019 9:30 AM

GySgt Thomas Vick — Sun, 02 Jun 2019 09:30:03 -0400

Best of luck to you, that kind of responsibility weighs heavy on every leaders soul. Take heed to do whats best for your mission, and troops.

Response by CSM David Brock made Jul 18 at 2019 2:54 PM

CSM David Brock — Thu, 18 Jul 2019 14:54:01 -0400

Go 4 Broke, Be the best you can be all the time. Know what you are doing all the time. If you aren’t sure asked your platoon Sgt. He is there to help you.

Response by SPC Dwight Turner made Jul 21 at 2019 11:02 PM

SPC Dwight Turner — Sun, 21 Jul 2019 23:02:12 -0400

just as long you treat both men and women same there shouldnt be any problem !!!
givings part of respect

Response by MSG Johnathan Mathes made Jul 22 at 2019 7:32 PM

MSG Johnathan Mathes — Mon, 22 Jul 2019 19:32:26 -0400

you better have your shit wired tight and the asshole pucker factor down pat.. because your going to see and learn incredible stuff... you better be able to ruck further .. run faster ...shoot better.. know how to plan and prepare a plt... if your a airborne plt leader.. you better want to go to jumpmaster school.. better like sleeping in holes... better like being dirty and staying dirty ... and you better learn to listen to a plt sgt period or your going to fail right off... be better than everyone else

Response by CPT Tony Baucom made Aug 6 at 2019 6:32 PM

CPT Tony Baucom — Tue, 06 Aug 2019 18:32:23 -0400

There is no more noble profession than Infantry. You will have more to prove than your male counterpart. Stay in your lane and focus on your platoon and the care of your soldiers even the ones who hate you. Your Platoon Sgt will make make or break you. Finally be open to all opinions on “your” place in this mans Army and prove us wrong.

Response by SSgt G Wingate made May 12 at 2020 4:44 AM

SSgt G Wingate — Tue, 12 May 2020 04:44:38 -0400

Yeah pick another job

Response by 1LT W. Ashford made Sep 18 at 2020 9:46 PM

1LT W. Ashford — Fri, 18 Sep 2020 21:46:15 -0400

My only advise as a One time Infantryman as a EM, NCO & Officer who served in peace (Cold War) and Combat, is make sure Infantry is in your soul. Like other commentators have stated, You go Infantry and excel only if your a hard shelled, tough-mindset, and incredibly adaptive individual that can suffer the worst conditions are normal. The culture was just a bit different but Infantry work is still kicking ass and taking names. Hardcore is a title you earn and respect is given to those that drive themselves the hardest, work as a teammate but also will set the example as an individual soldier who is an expect in their craft. Remember your best resources are your NCOs because they are truly the backbone of the Army. Good luck, be alert, and lead from the front.

Response by MSG Thomas Currie made Aug 25 at 2021 2:47 PM

MSG Thomas Currie — Wed, 25 Aug 2021 14:47:30 -0400

Based on your opening statement, my first advice would be: GET OVER YOURSELF -- you ain't that special.

Fine you decided you wanted to be Infantry --- I don't know (or care) whether that was because you expected faster promotions or just wanted to prove something, but none of that matters when you arrive at a real unit as the least qualified SOLDIER in your unit.

Yes, I said that. I said it because it is something everyone in your unit will know but none of them will dare to tell you lest you run to whine about harassment and discrimination. No one is going to tell you that everything you learned at Infantry OBC is (at best) just a starting point. No one is gong to tell you that you are just another 2LT passing through the platoon, just as clueless as the last 2LT or the next one.

Everyone else in your unit has training and experience for their job -- you have almost five years of schooling which obviously didn't prepare you for the job.

MAYBE if you can get over yourself and stop being a "female Infantry officer" you might learn how to become an Infantry officer, but as long as you focus on the female aspect so will everyone else.

Response by LTC Bill Koski made Sep 15 at 2021 10:32 PM

LTC Bill Koski — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 22:32:51 -0400

Go for it! Just keep moving and do your job.......you'll be in the top of your class. Also, Be a PT stud, sure way to be recommended for Ranger School, once you check that block..you are golden. Huoah!