Women in the Military

Floor Speech

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Ms. HOULAHAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a veteran of the United States Air Force on this national Women Veterans Day to tell Secretary Hegseth and President Trump that women who raise their hand and swear an oath to protect and defend this Nation are not going anywhere and we will not be silent.

From the earliest days of our Nation, women have always served, both officially and unofficially, facing off against America's enemies. Today, women make up nearly 18 percent of the Active-Duty force and 22 percent of our National Guard and Reserve.

Studies prove that their service improves innovation and mission outcomes, making our military stronger, smarter, and more prepared to face the challenges of modern warfare.

The administration's artificial barriers on who can lead and who can serve are disrespectful and irresponsible. Firing and pushing aside decorated female leaders who earned their positions diminishes military readiness and devalues the standards and integrity of the very military itself.

Women in our military are not insignificant or inconsequential. We are indeed essential, and we cannot be pushed out or erased.

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