Two women just made history by becoming the first females in U.S. history to successfully complete the Army’s Ranger training program, and they’re set to graduate with their 94 male colleagues later this week at Fort Benning, Georgia.
The school was just opened to women this year, as part of the Obama administration’s goal of incorporating more females in military spots traditionally reserved for men. The two who successfully completed the program haven’t yet been named in the media.
The Army’s Ranger training is known for its vigorous standards. Nineteen women and 381 men began the program on April 20; only 96 ultimately finished it.
“Congratulations to all of our new Rangers,” Army Secretary John McHugh said in a statement reported by the Blaze. “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.”
Part of Ranger training requires participants to go long periods without adequate amounts of food and sleep.
