Navy Makes History With First Female Special Warfare Combatant-Craft Crew Member
A big step was taken within the ranks of the United States Navy as they welcomed their first female to the Naval Special Warfare Combatant-Craft (SWCC) crew.
The unidentified woman made history when she graduated Thursday after completing a special warfare training course to earn her new position. The Associated Press reports she is remaining unidentified per standard military policy.
“Becoming the first woman to graduate from a Naval Special Warfare training pipeline is an extraordinary accomplishment, and we are incredibly proud of our teammate,” Rear Adm. H.W. Howard, commander of the U.S. Naval Special Warfare Command said in a statement. “Like her fellow operators, she demonstrated the character, cognitive and leadership attributes required to join our force.”
According to the Navy’s Website, these special forces operators transport Navy SEALS and others to gather information from enemy military. Due to the nature of the job, they must also complete a rigorous training course.
The training lasts 37 weeks, with an initial recruit boot camp, two-month preparatory course, three-week orientation and seven-week water and navigation skills training. The final step, which takes place in the last three days, is called “The Tour,” which tests trainees physically and mentally and checks their stamina and strength. Only 35% of SWCC candidates make it to graduation.
They must also meet a series of qualifications to even be considered for training, including specific eyesight requirements, being 30 years of age or younger, being a U.S. citizen and eligible for security clearance and meeting a minimum score on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery.
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