March 5, 2025

Leading the Way: Captain Linda Bray and the Fight for Women in Combat

Captain Linda Bray made history as the first woman to lead U.S. troops in combat. She gained national recognition during the U.S. invasion of Panama in 1989 (Operation Just Cause) when she commanded the 988th Military Police Company in an engagement against Panamanian Defense Forces (PDF).

Key Facts About Captain Linda Bray:

Historical Role: First American woman to command troops in combat.
Operation: Participated in Operation Just Cause in Panama.
Engagement: Led her military police company in an assault on a Panamanian Defense Force (PDF) kennel that was suspected of housing enemy forces and weapons.
Impact: The battle sparked national debate about the role of women in combat, ultimately influencing future military policies.

Bray's leadership during the operation fueled discussions on gender roles in the military, particularly regarding women serving in direct combat roles. Her actions paved the way for later policy changes, including the eventual lifting of the ban on women in combat roles in 2013.

WASP during WWII

During WWII, Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) were civilian female pilots who flew non-combat missions, such as ferrying aircraft, towing targets for gunnery training, and transporting cargo. Their efforts freed up male pilots for combat roles, …

Forgotten Battles: Unearthing the Hidden Heroes of American History

When we reflect on American military history, certain battles immediately come to mind: Bunker Hill, Gettysburg, D-Day. Yet, beneath the surface of these well-known conflicts lies a trove of forgotten battles, each with its own unique story of…