Hundreds of women have proven their competence and were awarded for their heroism during the nation’s longest war in Iraq and Afghanistan, advocates said.

Summary

Female veterans and service members are condemning Defense Secretary nominee Pete Hegseth’s comments opposing women in combat roles, calling them outdated and harmful.

Hegseth claimed women in combat complicate military effectiveness, despite decades of evidence proving their competence, including service in Iraq and Afghanistan, where over 300,000 women served, with 179 killed and over 1,000 wounded.

Critics, including Sen. Tammy Duckworth, a Purple Heart recipient, argue Hegseth’s views ignore the realities of modern warfare.

His nomination has sparked backlash, further amplified by past allegations of sexual misconduct.