GiveTree’s Post

The future is bright for women in the military. Those who serve today continue to break barriers and make the way for the next generation to follow them in combat and leadership roles. Uncover new secrets about some of the amazing women who have served in the military through the years: https://hubs.ly/Q02mSGPC0

Congratulations to Col (Ret'd) Nishika Jardine on being selected as one of Esprit de Corps Military Magazine's 2024 Top Women in Defence! For over 40 years, COLONEL (RET’D) NISHIKA JARDINE has been providing outstanding leadership: in the CAF, on boards of directors for community organizations, and now as the Veterans Ombud. In the CAF, Nishika pursued a career as an officer in the Royal Canadian Electrical and Mechanical Engineering Branch (RCEME). A true believer in putting people first, she quickly became a role model for other military women and a mentor for the soldiers under her command. Jardine has always been an advocate for fairness and equality. That is why her role as Ombud is such a perfect fit. In addition to taking on individual complaints of unfairness, she is dedicated to combatting systemic unfairness in VAC to ensure equitable access to VAC benefits and services. In 2021, OVO, under her leadership, released a systemic review focusing on Peer Support for Veterans who have experienced Military Sexual Trauma. Because of OVO’s recommendation, VAC is now working with the CAF to fund a peer support program to meet the needs of these Veterans. Jardine says “[As the Veterans Ombud,] I am personally concerned about CAF and RCMP Veterans with service-related mental health issues and how that impacts their and their families’ well-being and in particular their relationship with Veterans Affairs Canada. It is important that there are no barriers to receiving the benefits, service and supports they are entitled to in recognition of their service to Canada. We [also] continue to look at fairness issues that have a disproportionate impact on single Veterans, Veterans with caregiving responsibilities, and Veterans who need support to live independently at home.” For those who are considering entering the CAF, Jardine advises: “Cultivate resilience. It doesn’t matter where you go in life, or what you do, there will always be challenges, some more difficult than others. Each of us has to determine for ourselves how we will respond to these challenges. We need to be able to carry on, to strive and to achieve the best we can.” The stories of others [such as the Women in Defence Awards] can be so inspiring it gives us all an opportunity to learn from others.

Encouraging More Women to Explore Careers in the British Armed Forces As we continue to witness a gradual increase in female representation in the UK Armed Forces, it's vital to encourage more women to consider careers in this dynamic and evolving sector. The latest figures reveal an encouraging trend, with women forming a significant part of the Royal Air Force (RAF) and other branches, demonstrating the diversification and inclusivity of these forces. As a man advocating for this cause, I recognize that my perspective might not resonate with all. However, it's essential to support and promote the role of women in the Armed Forces actively. Their participation not only strengthens the forces but also serves as an inspiration for future generations. While there are no explicit recruitment targets for women in the UK Armed Forces, efforts are ongoing to create a more diverse and inclusive environment. This reflects the commitment to ensuring that the Armed Forces better represent the society they serve. As of October in 2023, 11.7% of the UK Regular Forces are women, with the RAF leading in female representation at 15.9% for regular personnel and 23.8% for reserve personnel. This diversity not only enhances the strength of our forces but also brings unique perspectives and skills to the table. The historical strides made by women in our Armed Forces are noteworthy. From the formation of Britain's first all-female military unit, the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps in 1917, to the integration of women into mainstream RAF roles in 1994, and the opening of all combat roles to women by 2018, each milestone has paved the way for today's opportunities. These achievements highlight the potential and capabilities of women in various roles within the military. Our Armed Forces offer a plethora of opportunities, from operational roles to support and leadership positions, providing a platform for women to excel and contribute significantly to our nation's defence. Let's continue to support and encourage more women to explore the diverse career paths available in our British Army, HM Forces, RAF, and Royal Navy. Their involvement is crucial for a robust, effective, and inclusive defence force. #WomenInArmedForces #MilitaryDiversity #RAFGenderEquality #FemaleEmpowermentInUniform #BritishArmyWomen #RAFWomen #RoyalNavyWomen #HMForcesInclusion #WomenInDefence #GenderEqualityInForces

We’re beyond excited to see a woman leading the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) for the first time in history. Lieutenant-General Jennie Carignan was announced as the next Chief of the Defence Staff, marking a significant milestone for gender representation in the Canadian Armed Forces. This appointment is not just a personal achievement for Lieutenant-General Carignan but a monumental step forward for all women in male-dominated fields. At Build a Dream, our mission is to empower young women to pursue careers in industries where they have traditionally been underrepresented. Lieutenant-General Carignan's rise to this prestigious position exemplifies the progress that can be made when we challenge stereotypes and open doors for women to lead and excel. Representation matters. When women see leaders who look like them in positions of power, it ignites the belief that they too can achieve greatness. Lieutenant-General Carignan’s appointment is a powerful reminder that gender should never be a barrier to success. Source: https://lnkd.in/eNJSyhHp #TakeYourSpace #WomenInLeadership #Canada #CanadianArmedForces 

This is what Press Information Bureau/ MoD published on 04 Aug 2023? In Indian Navy, women are given opportunities for spouse co-location, resettlement posting and compassionate grounds posting in a gender-neutral manner. Other provisions of maternity leave with provisions to conjoin other types of leave (viz. annual, furlough, Child Care Leave) is also being granted. Further, the following steps are being taken to recruit more women soldiers in Indian Navy: -Women in all Branches/ Cadre/ Specialisations: Entry of women in all branches/Cadres/Specialisations (except Submarine specialisation) has commenced w.e.f. June, 2023. -On board Ships: Women officers are also being appointed on board warships in afloat billets and also as Specialist Naval Air Operations (NAO) officers to ship borne helicopters. -RPA Stream: Women officers can now join the Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) stream and first women officer joined RPA Squadron in March, 2021. -Overseas Assignments: Women officers have also been deputed on Diplomatic assignments and other Foreign Cooperation engagements. -National Defence Academy (NDA): Entry of women cadets in NDA has been permitted from 2022 wherein women officers are being inducted as PC officers. Three vacancies per batch were initially allocated at NDA for women candidates of Navy and the first batch has joined in June, 2022. The number of vacancies for women cadets at NDA have been further increased from 03 to 12 for subsequent batches w.e.f. January, 2024. -Indian Naval Academy (INA): At INA, women cadets are now eligible to join through ‘10+2 B.Tech.’ entry scheme w.e.f. January 2024. -Women Agniveers: As a part of the Agnipath Scheme, women have been enrolled as Agniveers commencing from the first batch itself. They are subjected to the same training curriculum, professional courses and retention criteria as compared to their male counterparts. 𝘈𝘴 𝘸𝘦 𝘤𝘦𝘭𝘦𝘣𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘞𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯'𝘴 𝘋𝘢𝘺 𝘵𝘰𝘥𝘢𝘺, 𝘭𝘦𝘵'𝘴 𝘢𝘤𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸𝘭𝘦𝘥𝘨𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘪𝘨𝘯𝘪𝘧𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘥𝘦 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘐𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘢𝘯 𝘕𝘢𝘷𝘺 𝘵𝘰𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘥𝘴 𝘨𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘭𝘶𝘴𝘪𝘷𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵. Happy Women's Day! #womensday #womenempowerment #commanderram #genderequality #indiannavy

Calling all women veterans! 🌟 Learn how to navigate the transition from military service to civilian life with confidence and resilience. Check out our new blog post for valuable insights and tips: #TransitionSkills #CareerAdvancement #SheThrives #MentalHealth #SelfCare

Our Inspiring Heritage Team at the Fleet Air Arm Museum! An impressive exhibition about pioneering women who laid the foundations for the Women's Royal Navy Service. False Beliefs Despite the common misconception that women in the 'Age of Sail' were never at sea, this exhibition demonstrates that women were actively working on board ships, serving them, and supporting naval operations long before 1917. The display showcases the presence of women on board Royal Navy ships and reveals some fascinating stories about their living conditions. Many of the women on ships in the 16th - 19th centuries were prostitutes, if they were unlucky enough to get stuck on board after the ship had left shore, or wives of men onboard. Sadly, despite experiencing the same horror as the men and performing their tasks with equal courage, they were rarely, if ever, included in a ship's muster book. Officially, they did not exist and, therefore, never received any payment or food rations afforded their male counterparts. They had to share their husband's provision or that of any of the men willing to part with their food. Until recently, the lives and labours of women on board have remained invisible. Naval historians rarely study these women, and they are seldom characterised in the media, such as films or television. It is fitting and justified that this balance is now being corrected and that the fascinating stories of these women are finally being told. #museumeducation #exhibitiondesign

Reflecting on when I had the honor of wearing the Security Forces Blue Beret as an ABGD, I recall our infantry tactics training for ground combat operations at U.S. air bases, in what was then a male-only field. The exclusion of women wasn't just commonplace; it was policy. Sgt. Estores' achievements mark a significant shift towards inclusivity and diversity within the Air Force, showcasing how far we've come from those days. As McConnell AFB's first female Raven, she symbolizes the breaking down of traditional gender barriers, highlighting our progress. To me, inclusivity goes beyond just integrating women into roles previously exclusive to men. It embraces a wider understanding of gender identity, including those who are non-binary and gender-nonconforming. The Department of Defense's evolution towards inclusivity now celebrates a range of gender identities, aiming to mirror the society it serves. I believe this diversity makes us a more capable and effective fighting force. Defensor Fortis!

Women take center stage in the #military as leaders extoll how important #women are to the #armedforces. What they say is also true of the #civilian #workforce on the difficulties of #familyplanning and #childcare and the importance of reducing attrition for these reasons. "Women are critical to our military. But for many, the demands and challenges can be career-ending. Female service members are 28% more likely to leave military service, driven in part by difficulties with family planning and child care. Reducing that attrition rate — combined with bringing in new #female recruits — is essential to maintaining America’s military readiness and protecting our national security." Louis Caldera, former Army secretary and former director of the White House Military Office, Ray Mabus is a former Navy secretary, and Deborah James is a former Air Force secretary and former assistant defense secretary for reserve affairs link the nation's security and readiness to abortion in a stirring op-ed in The Washington Post. https://wapo.st/3Orx3vS

In 1782, General George Washington, Commander-In-Chief of the Continental Army, commissioned the first Purple Heart Medal, which had previously been called the Badge of Military Merit. This merit is presented to the brave men and women who are wounded or killed while serving. Take some time today to remember, honor, and pray for the valiant men and women recognized by the Military Order of the #PurpleHeart. 💜  #GCGWealthManagement #Finance #PersonalFinance #FinancialPlanner #FinancialAdvisory #Retirement #Invest #CharlotteNC #CharlotteSouthEnd #VantageSouthEnd #CFP #PurpleHeartDay