Blumenthal, Murphy Applaud Passage of Resolution Congratulating Captain Kristen Griest and First Lieutenant Shaye Haver on Graduation from Ranger School

(Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) today applauded passage of a Senate resolution congratulating Captain Kristen Griest and First Lieutenant Shaye Haver on their graduation from Army Ranger school. Griest, an Orange, Connecticut native, and Haver are the first ever women to complete the rigorous 62-day course.

The resolution states that the Senate: “(1) honors and recognizes the patriotism and historic contributions to the United States by Captain Kristen Griest and First Lieutenant Shaye Haver; (2) commends their character, courage, and tenacity as the first women to earn the Ranger tab signifying graduation from Ranger School; (3) recognizes that our military and our country are more battle ready as a result of their accomplishments; (4) celebrates their services as they continue to ‘Lead the Way!’ as our nation’s newest United States Army Rangers; and (5) congratulates them for their inspiring and groundbreaking accomplishments.”

Blumenthal said: “Captain Griest and Lt. Shaver deserve the highest admiration for their groundbreaking achievement—a testament to their strength, courage, tenacity and dedication to service. Their accomplishments should help to break down barriers throughout the combat ranks—proving that standards need not and should not be lowered. Our Army and our country are stronger for their service and we owe them the utmost gratitude and respect as they apply their rigorous training to our nation’s most demanding and difficult missions abroad. Reaching this professional peak makes them dynamic role models for many others inspired by their professionalism and proficiency.  Now the nation must match their extraordinary performance with equally exceptional opportunity.”

Murphy said: “Captain Griest and Lt. Shaver have earned the right to wear the Ranger tab on their uniforms. These two brave women have proven they have what it takes to be among the military’s most elite fighting force,  and their achievement should serve as a reminder of the service and sacrifice that so many service members – men and women – have made to our country. On behalf of the entire community in Orange and across Connecticut, we are especially proud of Captain Griest and thank her for all that she has dedicated to our state and our nation.”

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