Gen. Jennie Carignan, the first woman to command Canada's military, strongly responded to U.S. Senator Jim Risch's comments questioning the role of women in combat. During a panel session at the Halifax International Security Forum, Risch suggested that the integration of men and women in combat units creates unique situations that need to be addressed, and that the jury is still out on how to handle them.
Carignan, who has served as Canada's chief of defense staff and has extensive combat experience, took issue with these remarks. She emphasized that women in combat are not a distraction and highlighted the long history of women's contributions to defense and national security. Carignan stated, "After 39 years as a combat arms officer and risking my life in operations worldwide, I cant believe that in 2024, we still have to justify womens contributions to their defense and service to their country".
Her powerful rebuttal received a standing ovation from the audience, which included defense and security officials from various Western democracies. Carignan's remarks underscored the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions of women in the military.
