Honoring those who ‘inspire future generations’

Women have been able to serve in all military occupations and specialties since the end of 2015.

“Over recent decades, we’ve opened about 90% of military positions to women who time and again have proven that they, too, are qualified, ready and up to the task,” said then-U.S. President Barack Obama on Dec. 3, 2015, in a statement announcing the opening up of the remaining 10% of military positions, including combat roles, to women. “Together, we’re going to make sure our military remains the finest fighting force in the history of the world, worthy of all our patriots who serve — men and women.”

U.S. Sen. Mazie Hirono of Hawai‘i, a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and 21 of her Democratic Senate colleagues, including fellow Hawai‘i U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, recently came together to co-sponsor federal legislation in celebration of American women who serve in combat roles in the U.S. Armed Forces.

“Thousands of brave women serve in our armed forces, making the ultimate sacrifice to serve our country, protect our national security and keep us safe,” said Hirono.

The resolution “recognizes the contribution, bravery and sacrifices of women serving in combat roles in the armed forces and encourages the continued celebration of the achievements of women in the armed forces to inspire future generations,” noting specifically that:

• Women have honorably served in the armed services with distinction since the American Revolution.
• The U.S. Department of Defense announced in December 2015 the opening of all military occupations and specialties to women.
• Women have received numerous commendations for their service in combat after September 2001, including Silver Stars and Bronze Stars.
• Since Sept. 11, 2001, about 3,000 women have earned Combat Action Badges and Combat Action Ribbons.
• Women serve in special forces units, including as Army Rangers, Air Force Special Operators and in the Marine Corps Special Operations Command.

The resolution comes as U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the U.S. Department of Defense Pete Hegseth continues to be criticized for, among many other things, a record of denigrating women servicemembers in combat roles.

Hirono earlier this week during Hegseth’s confirmation hearing in Washington pressed the combat veteran, co-host of “FOX & Friends Weekend” on FOX News Channel and host of “FOX Nation” on numerous reports of personal misconduct, sexual assault and more.

She also asked, if confirmed, where his loyalty would lie — with the U.S. Constitution or just Trump?

“Pete Hegseth lacks the understanding of how crucial these women are to our military,” said Hirono. “Our female servicemembers deserve a secretary of defense who does not undermine and disparage them or their contributions.”

You can read the resolution in full online.