Posted on Aug 15, 2015
Will the Army open its elite Ranger Regiment to women?
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Air National Guard C-130s roared over the lush, shaggy grass of the Elizabeth Drop Zone here last week, a near-steady hum overhead. Army Ranger students were a few hours into a mission known as Operation Pegasus, and needed to parachute in from a height of about 1,100 feet.
Aircrews made several passes without letting any students out due to breezy conditions deemed unsafe to jump. But eventually, the students’ green chutes dotted the early-evening Thursday sky. They floated down into the open fields of Eglin with 70 pounds of equipment, food and water before disappearing into thick brush, beginning a 10-day exercise that ends this Saturday and is the last major field event in the Army’s famously difficult Ranger School.
History is in the balance: For the first time, two female students advanced to the third and final phase of the famously exhausting course in the swamps of Florida, and are within reach of graduating. If they pass, they will become the first Ranger-qualified women in the history of the U.S. military and celebrated at an Aug. 21 graduation ceremony at Fort Benning, Ga., that is expected to draw not only family and friends, but hundreds of other well-wishers and media from across the country.
If they graduate, the Army must confront a separate, but related decision: Whether to allow women to try out for the elite 75th Ranger Regiment. The highly trained Special Operations unit carries out raids and other difficult missions and includes about 3,600 soldiers, according to a recent Government Accountability Office report. It remains completely closed to women, even though some of the jobs in it, ranging from parachute rigger to intelligence analyst, are open in other parts of the Army.
The women were allowed into Ranger School this year as part of the military’s ongoing assessment of how to integrate women into combat roles. In 2013, Pentagon leaders decided to rescind the long-held policy banning women from serving in combat-arms jobs like infantryman. Thus far, the Army has said that any woman who graduates will be allowed to wear the prestigious Ranger Tab, but won’t be allowed to serve in the Ranger Regiment. The decoration is highly respected across the military, and considered a necessity to advance in many Army careers.
http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/will-the-army-open-its-elite-ranger-regiment-to-women-a-controversial-decision-awaits/ar-BBlEbj7
Aircrews made several passes without letting any students out due to breezy conditions deemed unsafe to jump. But eventually, the students’ green chutes dotted the early-evening Thursday sky. They floated down into the open fields of Eglin with 70 pounds of equipment, food and water before disappearing into thick brush, beginning a 10-day exercise that ends this Saturday and is the last major field event in the Army’s famously difficult Ranger School.
History is in the balance: For the first time, two female students advanced to the third and final phase of the famously exhausting course in the swamps of Florida, and are within reach of graduating. If they pass, they will become the first Ranger-qualified women in the history of the U.S. military and celebrated at an Aug. 21 graduation ceremony at Fort Benning, Ga., that is expected to draw not only family and friends, but hundreds of other well-wishers and media from across the country.
If they graduate, the Army must confront a separate, but related decision: Whether to allow women to try out for the elite 75th Ranger Regiment. The highly trained Special Operations unit carries out raids and other difficult missions and includes about 3,600 soldiers, according to a recent Government Accountability Office report. It remains completely closed to women, even though some of the jobs in it, ranging from parachute rigger to intelligence analyst, are open in other parts of the Army.
The women were allowed into Ranger School this year as part of the military’s ongoing assessment of how to integrate women into combat roles. In 2013, Pentagon leaders decided to rescind the long-held policy banning women from serving in combat-arms jobs like infantryman. Thus far, the Army has said that any woman who graduates will be allowed to wear the prestigious Ranger Tab, but won’t be allowed to serve in the Ranger Regiment. The decoration is highly respected across the military, and considered a necessity to advance in many Army careers.
http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/will-the-army-open-its-elite-ranger-regiment-to-women-a-controversial-decision-awaits/ar-BBlEbj7
Women in the Military
Army
Ranger
Posted >1 y ago
Responses: 37
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Regiment has nothing to do with RTB. Easy to do a pilot program for a qualification course...much different when you are going to live that life as long as your military career or your body might allow. We shall see...
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Even if they did, is there a woman who could pass the RPAT?
Just because two women made through Ranger School after the third try, has nothing to do with whether they can hang in the most elite Infantry unit in the world. Ranger School is tough, but nothing compared to my three weeks in RIP or my first six months of hell in Regiment.
Just because two women made through Ranger School after the third try, has nothing to do with whether they can hang in the most elite Infantry unit in the world. Ranger School is tough, but nothing compared to my three weeks in RIP or my first six months of hell in Regiment.
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MAJ Byron Oyler
I know this post is old but you are still on RP. We need to stop sending women to combat units until we can send at least a squad size or larger of them at a time. Placing one woman in a platoon of all men is setting her up for failure. Not saying we need an entire squad of women in a platoon but at least squad level numbers in a company.
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Why send them to Ranger school then? If they can pass Ranger school, they can get assigned to a Ranger Bat. That doesn't mean that they can stay. Ranger school is elementary school for badasses. Serving and surviving in an actual Ranger Bat is another story. If it is up to you to lift a 225 pound batman gear heavy Ranger and get them to the LZ, no one cares if you are tabbed or not. If you can't perform the task, pack your trash and go home before you get someone killed.
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SSG (Join to see)
If that is the case then I retract my statement and apologize for my brief lack of professionalism. There are few things I hold close to my heart and those being my religion, my family, my country, and my regiment. May we continue to fight side by side as equals who have equal love for our country.
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1SG (Join to see)
Yes, as seen two female made it all the way over many of the males who started. So I would want them on my team in a fire fight. Set the Standards and let all who are able to attend and pass go right ahead. We are moving forward no backwards.
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A Solider has no gender. If they qualify and can do the job then what is the issue?
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CMSgt James Nolan
TSgt Hunter Logan - You are showing your age.....There is no more LE and SF, it is all SF (Security Forces-Not Special Forces: Have to make that distinction for anyone who is not up on AF Terminology LOL). Now the Security Forces do everything, forever, with nothing...it never stops. But we are stubborn and embrace the mission.
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CSM (Join to see)
CPT Toby Forbes - Separate bathrooms? Not for much longer. Transgender is about to hit us. Going to be interesting to see how that works out.
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SFC Michael Hasbun
CSM (Join to see) - Porta johns have been unisex for decades, sky hasn't fallen yet... I think we'll be OK...
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If they can meet all of the same requirements (gender-neutral) then sure.
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LCDR (Join to see)
SSG (Join to see) On a side note since the article doesn't really cover the question but is excellent reference/a good read:
Well written and from the heart from a guy who didn't think women would make it through. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
Well written and from the heart from a guy who didn't think women would make it through. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
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SSG (Join to see)
Sir, the article is provide an understanding from a Ranger's point of view on these to strong women. Sort of an eye opener for people who believe those women shouldn't have earned their Ranger Tab.
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GySgt Wayne A. Ekblad Interesting question. Unlike our Marines, who did their pilots at their Infantry courses enlisted and officer, the Army decided on Ranger School? I am still not sure why; no one really is. Ranger school is/was open to many skills and MOSs, but until this pilot... not to women. Ranger school is arguably the hardest school in DOD and the Army... so, if I women can do it... why can't women be in the Ranger Regiment, Army Special Forces, or conventional Infantry for that matter? Many will argue this was a tainted experiment, that was geared to ensure some women succeeded... Who knows what really happened? I know, or at least I believe, the 75th wants no part of this, and has been actively working to ensure everyone understands the school and regiment are not one in the same. To them, the regiment is the real deal and the school is just a school. I am not sure I agree... but I am just Ranger qualified... not a "real ranger" as the regiment likes to make that distinction...
Interesting and emotional question indeed.
Interesting and emotional question indeed.
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COL Charles Williams
CSM (Join to see) - CSM, I am well aware of what the difference are, which over the years... since I attended this TRADOC school, the Regiment has worked hard (too hard in my view) to ensure everyone knows they are a big deal, and the school is not so much. If this school, is not such a big deal to Regiment... why then must every enlisted 11 series Soldier in the Regiment successfully complete this TRADOC Leadership course eventually while enroute to becoming a full fledged Army Ranger...? If you are not successful, you are no longer welcome... A private attends OSUT, Airborne School, RASP and eventually earns the opportunity to attend Ranger School. If they fail, they are rapidly dismissed from the Regiment... I don't honestly understand the increasing effort(s) to ensure that everyone knows there is a huge difference between... "The school vs. the Regiment AKA real Rangers" ... yet the Regiment requires successful completion of this TRADOC course to stay in their ranks... No, I have never served in the Regiment, but I consider myself a Ranger, as does the Army. But, as I said earlier, if you asked me what I did during my 33 years in, I would tell you I was Soldier, or a MP. I do get the difference. But, I don't get the relentless effort to trivialize the efforts of those outside of the Regiment. This is a team sport. Nevertheless, none that has to do with issue of whether or not women should be allowed the opportunity to serve in 11, 19, or 18... or 13F... It will be interesting to see how this turns out. My senses tell me, all will be open by 1 Jan 16.
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CSM (Join to see)
My point is that going to Ranger school is just one step in being a member of the regiment. In no way does that lessen the accomplishment of completing Ranger school. In the last year we have sent 2 phenomenal Captains to RASP and neither was selected to join the regiment. It will be interesting to see how integrating females into all combat MOSs works out. At the end of the day it will fail or succeed based on leadership at the CO level and below.
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COL Charles Williams
CSM (Join to see) - Hooah CSM. This will be interesting. I spent my life in the Army from OSUT in 1980, to retirement in 2013, in a branch that had women when I arrived (minus several years as an Armor Officer after OCS), and in so doing spent my life supporting maneuver units. I too am interested. I understand the differences. I am personally OK with anyone, doing anything (be afforded the opportunity that is) so long as the standard is constant, and they met the standards necessary for the job.
I believe by Jan 16 all MOSs will be open to women. Do I agree? Not sure that really matters, and not sure the decision makers care. I think, like all other changes, all will be OK. I also don't think there will be a ground swell of women vying for maneuver jobs. Heck, there are plenty of men, that don't want your job, and who are happy and thankful for those who volunteer to do the jobs we all support.
I believe by Jan 16 all MOSs will be open to women. Do I agree? Not sure that really matters, and not sure the decision makers care. I think, like all other changes, all will be OK. I also don't think there will be a ground swell of women vying for maneuver jobs. Heck, there are plenty of men, that don't want your job, and who are happy and thankful for those who volunteer to do the jobs we all support.
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Yes it's called equal opportunity to all. They opened up door, now women will knock it down and continue the mission.
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Before everyone breaks their charging handles, I believe they simply went to Ranger School - I have heard no mention of any females going to a Bat. On this, I'm in total agreement, life in a Bat is WAAAAY different than passing Ranger School. There may be a female or two who could actually do it but I don't think females will be low crawling to get into battalion.
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Isn't that a loaded question? They can be graduates and wear the tab, but will they be deployed in a leadership position any time soon?
Clancy, beg to differ, there is a gender difference and actually that can not be changed, since DNA decides that. The question is are we willing to place our females in a position where they will, in all probability be in hand to hand combat. As I have stated previously, females in the all volunteer forces are essential for our national security. I would only say if there is a danger that a PC agenda could cost lives due to physical strength, it may not be the greatest ides.
Clancy, beg to differ, there is a gender difference and actually that can not be changed, since DNA decides that. The question is are we willing to place our females in a position where they will, in all probability be in hand to hand combat. As I have stated previously, females in the all volunteer forces are essential for our national security. I would only say if there is a danger that a PC agenda could cost lives due to physical strength, it may not be the greatest ides.
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MCPO Roger Collins
Here is an example of my issues with women in some areas of the military. Pure brute strength. You may have seen this. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kxq3dZaawFw
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CSM (Join to see)
They are Lieutenants. They are already leaders. If they went through the school with the same standards as the men, good for them. The Ranger Regiment is a different beast....it isn't just a school, it is a lifestyle that very few can make it in. Times are changing and it will be interesting to see where this goes.
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MCPO Roger Collins
CSM (Join to see) - Kind of what I have been saying. As to leaders you should be far better at knowing the difference between an act of Congress and a proven leader. Particularly in combat. No doubt that it will happen but the results have yet to be seen. Good to hear your thoughts.
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Sure why not as long as they meet all the published standards that any other Ranger must go through to join the unit.
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SGT Ben Keen
SSG (Join to see) - I don't see how it would disrupt the unit's effectiveness. It isn't like the 75th Rangers just go out and pick up anyone to serve in their ranks. Those asked to serve and wear the long tap only do so after they prove themselves capable of doing so.
I think the same can be said for females in any unit though. Let's keep in mind, this isn't he first time a group of people were wanting to do something and was met with people wondering how the ranks would be impacted only to see that the addition of the new group of people was a force multiplier. What benefits are there to do this? While I'm no expert but it can be a force multiplier by giving you insight to issues or being able to do something differently. Take for example, the 75th Ranger go in and do their thing, during their mission they encounter a group of females who refuse to respond to a male Soldier telling them to leave. So in steps a female Soldier and instantly the women are more comfortable and follow the instructions.
I think the same can be said for females in any unit though. Let's keep in mind, this isn't he first time a group of people were wanting to do something and was met with people wondering how the ranks would be impacted only to see that the addition of the new group of people was a force multiplier. What benefits are there to do this? While I'm no expert but it can be a force multiplier by giving you insight to issues or being able to do something differently. Take for example, the 75th Ranger go in and do their thing, during their mission they encounter a group of females who refuse to respond to a male Soldier telling them to leave. So in steps a female Soldier and instantly the women are more comfortable and follow the instructions.
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SSG (Join to see)
SGT, isn't that one of the reasons why we have CST elements attached to some units during deployments?
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SGT Ben Keen
SSG (Join to see) - CSTs can totally do that and should do. It was just merely an example. Again, if the female can perform her duties at the same level or higher as her male counterparts why should they not be allowed to serve in a unit?
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SSG (Join to see)
I reserve no reason that women should not be a part of the unit. I will admit to you that it is a bit of a pride booster to be a part of such a prestigious unit and if anything changes, then I have a feeling that I am not having the same experience as my fellow Rangers that served before me. I see it as a change in a big part of prideful history but that's just me being selfish. If a women deserves the title and earned it, then why not afford them the opportunity of being a Ranger?
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