In January 2013, Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta rescinded the Direct Combat Exclusion Rule, the policy that restricted women from serving in combat. After which, all the military services were tasked to methodically implement the incorporation of women into previously closed combat roles. The Air Force undertook a rigorous scientific study to ensure occupational-specific, operationally-relevant physical fitness standards. I got to photograph the study, and let me tell you, these women are freaking tough! To quote one of my favorite shows ever, “Females are strong as hell.”
Categories: People
J.R. Photographs 