Female US Army veterans are refuting Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s assertion that combat role requirements will revert to the ‘highest male standard,’ emphasizing that standards have always been uniform regardless of gender. Speaking to hundreds of generals, Hegseth argued that previous adjustments to accommodate women had compromised military effectiveness and endangered personnel. He vowed to restore higher standards, even if it meant fewer women qualifying for combat roles. However, he clarified that women would not be entirely excluded from the armed forces. This announcement has sparked outrage among female veterans, who insist that combat standards have always been gender-neutral. Elisa Cardnell, a former US Navy officer, stated that assessments for combat roles have never considered gender or age. Combat standards vary by unit—special operations, infantry, armor, or pararescue—but all personnel must pass the same rigorous tests. Cardnell noted that while not all women meet these standards, neither do all men. Hegseth’s remarks have raised concerns about potential sweeping changes to military assessments, though details remain unclear. His critics, including Senator Tammy Duckworth, argue that his stance could harm recruitment and undermine women’s progress in the military. Duckworth, a combat pilot injured in Iraq, accused Hegseth of discrimination, given his own controversial confirmation as Defense Secretary. Despite the backlash, some female veterans and Republican lawmakers, such as Representative Sheri Biggs and Nancy Mace, support Hegseth’s efforts to prioritize excellence over diversity quotas. The debate underscores the ongoing tension between gender inclusivity and military readiness in the US armed forces.
‘None of us have ever asked for special treatment’ – Female veterans respond to Hegseth
