For the first time ever, two women have graduated from the super-elite Army Ranger School. The special forces school is largely regarded as one of the military’s toughest training programs. Both of the women, who have not been identified, are recent graduates of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. Current military policy forbids women from taking the next step of trying out for the 75th Ranger Regiment, but they will be permitted to the wear the Ranger Tab on their military uniforms.
In a statement, Army Secretary John McHugh said, “Each Ranger School graduate has shown the physical and mental toughness to successfully lead organizations at any level. This course has proven that every soldier, regardless of gender, can achieve his or her full potential. We owe soldiers the opportunity to serve successfully in any position where they are qualified and capable, and we continue to look for ways to select, train, and retain the best Soldiers to meet our nation’s needs.”
