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'None of us have ever asked for special treatment' - US female veterans respond to Hegseth speech

October 1, 2025

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced plans to "return to the highest male standard" for combat roles in the U.S. military, claiming standards were lowered to accommodate women. Female veterans strongly disagree with this characterization, asserting that combat role standards have always been gender-neutral and equally high for all service members. While Hegseth maintains women won't be excluded from the armed forces entirely, his directive has sparked significant controversy, with many female veterans arguing they've never received special treatment.

Who is affected

  • Women currently serving in combat roles in the U.S. military
  • Female veterans who previously served in combat positions
  • Military leadership responsible for implementing standards
  • Future female recruits considering combat positions
  • Service members of all genders whose career advancement might be impacted by changes to standards
  • Military units that include women in combat roles

What action is being taken

  • Defense Secretary Hegseth is issuing directives to military leadership to change combat role requirements
  • Female veterans are publicly challenging Hegseth's characterization of existing standards
  • Some Republican representatives are expressing support for Hegseth's initiatives
  • Senator Tammy Duckworth and other critics are voicing concerns about potential discrimination
  • The Pentagon has not yet clarified specific implementation plans for Hegseth's directives

Why it matters

  • The changes could potentially limit or eliminate women from qualifying for combat positions
  • The dispute centers on fundamental disagreements about whether standards were ever lowered
  • The controversy comes shortly after Hegseth's narrow confirmation to lead the Pentagon
  • The policy shift represents a significant change in military culture regarding gender integration
  • Female service members fear the directive could undermine their contributions and advancement opportunities
  • The changes could impact military recruitment, as Senator Duckworth suggested

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC

'None of us have ever asked for special treatment' - US female veterans respond to Hegseth speech