Story perspectives

Female Veterans Challenge Claims on Combat Standards Equality

10/2/2025

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Veterans Challenge Standards

Female US Army veterans challenge Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth's claim that combat standards revert to a male standard.
They say standards have always been the same for both genders.
Elisa Cardnell and Amy McGarth say combat assessments are gender-neutral, and not all men meet standards.
Annual physical tests vary by age and gender, but combat standards remain consistent across units.

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Hegseth Critiques Diversity

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth framed diversity initiatives as 'woke garbage' at Marine Corps Base Quantico.
He announced ten directives, including reviewing fitness standards to align with the 'highest male standards'.
Officials warned changes could affect recruitment and retention, especially for women and minority troops.
Hegseth acknowledged some men could be disqualified, a stance critics say could undermine harassment and discrimination efforts.

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Veterans Challenge Standards

Female US Army veterans challenge Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth's claim that combat standards revert to a male standard.
They say standards have always been the same for both genders.
Elisa Cardnell and Amy McGarth say combat assessments are gender-neutral, and not all men meet standards.
Annual physical tests vary by age and gender, but combat standards remain consistent across units.

1 / 2