Women in Combat: Breaking the "Iron Ceiling"

Women in combat shattered the "iron ceiling" over a decade ago when female soldiers volunteered for the most demanding missions during the War on Terror. Deploying with elite units under the Cultural Support Team (CST), these women proved indispensable in combat, challenging long-standing biases and paving the way for future generations. Retired Sgt. First Class Jeramy Neusmith, an Army Ranger who trained CST members, reflected on their achievements: "We breached it." The new documentary series "Guerrera," released on Amazon, YouTube, and Google TV, highlights their critical role, revealing little-known details about their integration with special operations units like Delta Force and Army Rangers. Their mission was to bridge intelligence gaps by engaging local women and children in Afghanistan and Iraq, providing crucial insights into terrorist movements. The documentary comes at a time when discussions about women in combat are resurfacing, with figures like Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth questioning their effectiveness, despite ample evidence of their capabilities.

The Debate Over Women in Combat Roles

The release of "Guerrera" coincides with ongoing debates about women in combat, sparked by Secretary Hegseth’s controversial remarks. Hegseth initially expressed opposition to women in combat, arguing it complicates operations and doesn’t enhance effectiveness. However, he later softened his stance, stating that women who meet standards should be allowed to serve. Despite his wavering comments, Hegseth has clarified he won’t reverse the 2013 Combat Exclusion Policy, which opened elite positions to women. Jessica Yahn, executive producer of the documentary and a CST veteran, emphasizes that the discussion should focus on unity. She said, "We need to break through some of those things that we immediately may perceive the other side is thinking." The series underscores the shared goal of maintaining high standards across genders, a unifying principle that transcends political divides.

A Turning Point in Women’s Combat History

The death of 1st Lt. Ashley White in 2011 marked a pivotal moment in the fight for women in combat. White, the first CST member killed in action, died alongside two Rangers in Afghanistan when their unit encountered an IED. Her sacrifice demonstrated that women could endure the harsh realities of combat without compromising missions. Ret. Sgt. First Class Jeramy Neusmith recalls, "They did their job, and then they went back and handled the death of their comrade. We beat the stigma." White’s death and the CST’s continued effectiveness challenged stereotypes about women in combat, disproving myths about emotional fragility and physical limitations. Their bravery laid the groundwork for policy changes, including the 2013 decision to allow women in combat roles and the 2015 milestone of the first women graduating from Army Ranger school.

Sacrifices and Heroism: The Legacy of CST Women

The CST program demanded extraordinary sacrifices, as seen in the story of Capt. Jennifer Moreno, the second CST member killed in combat. Moreno, a nurse, was fatally wounded in 2013 while attempting to save a fallen comrade during a chaotic raid in Afghanistan. Ret. Sgt. Tom Block, who lost an eye that night, said, "She was going to save a life come hell or high water. She embodied heroism that night." Moreno’s selflessness and the contributions of other CST women were instrumental in shifting perceptions of women’s roles in the military. Their success in elite units like the Rangers and Green Berets challenged outdated assumptions and inspired reforms. Over 140 women have since graduated from Army Ranger school, proving that elite standards can be met without compromise.

Beyond the Battlefield: The Broader Impact of Women in Combat

The integration of women into combat roles has had far-reaching implications beyond the military. Documentaries like "Guerrera" highlight the human side of their stories, emphasizing their courage, sacrifice, and heroism. Producer Will Agee hopes the series fosters dialogue and unity, reflecting the values that make military units and society thrive. By celebrating unsung heroes, the documentary encourages viewers to look beyond partisan divides and recognize the shared values that unite Americans. As the U.S. military continues to evolve, the legacy of CST women reminds us that excellence knows no gender and that unity in purpose is the foundation of success.

A New Era for Women in Combat

The sacrifices of CST women like Ashley White and Jennifer Moreno have left an indelible mark on military history. Their stories, as told in "Guerrera," remind us that the fight for equality and recognition is far from over. While women have made significant strides, debates about their role in combat persist, often fueled by misconceptions. The documentary challenges these biases, offering a powerful testament to the capabilities of women in uniform. By sharing their stories, "Guerrera" not only honors their legacy but also inspires future generations to break barriers and push boundaries. The series will soon be available on Apple, offering a wider audience the chance to experience the triumphs and struggles of these trailblazing women. Their journey is a reminder that unity, courage, and determination can overcome even the most ingrained obstacles.