Blumenthal Statement on First Women to Graduate from Army Ranger School

(Hartford, CT) – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) released the following statement today ahead of Friday’s graduation of the first female Army Rangers. First Lt. Kristen Griest of Orange, Conn., is one of the first two women to complete the 62-day course.

“Among the graduating class of 96 Army Rangers receiving their tabs, two will make history as the first female soldiers ever to accomplish this extraordinary feat - including First Lt. Kristen Griest of Orange, Conn. In the military as elsewhere, women are breaking down barriers and proving they are equally capable professionally and personally. These two women graduates are leaders in every sense, having demonstrated the courage and strength to serve in the most demanding, difficult missions. Their accomplishment shows that the Army should proceed to open combat positions and break down other professional barriers, as directed by former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta in 2013, and their graduation from Ranger School shows standards do not need to be lowered, nor should they be. Their success deserves the highest admiration and congratulations, and a special warm wishes to the Connecticut family of Lt. Griest.”

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