Stereotypes shattered by local student-soldier

By Kailey Smith
Business Manager

Stereotypes have been used against women for centuries, saying women cannot do what a man can. But now this stereotype is starting to change. 

In August of 2015 Capt. Kristen Griest and 1st Lt. Shaye Haver made ranger history. These women were the first to graduate from the elite ranger academy. 

“Many men do not believe that women can work up to the same ability as them,” senior Emily Falenski stated.  “But these women proved that us females can accomplish anything a man can as long as we put out the effort.”

Senior Skye Stambaugh had the opportunity to attend The American Legion State police youth week a few years back. 

“The American Legion State police youth week is a program that parents can enter children in that need to get there attitude in check.” Stambaugh said. “The program definitely changed me. It’s what made me decide to join the military after high school. They teach you respect, the program really opens your eyes,” Stambaugh explained. 

Her initial request to attend Basic Training during the summer between between junior and senior year was denied because of concern about extended abscences at the start of the school year.

Stambaugh said “I wasn’t giving up.” She then took her request to Dr. Deisley, the Superintendent of Red Lion Area School District. 

Stambaugh’s request was granted and she had the opportunity to attend Basic Training in June of 2015 during the summer between her junior and senior year of high school.

“I was lucky to have the opportunity to be able to attend Basic Training as early as I did. When I went to Basic it was as if I was proving that any female is capable of anything they put their mind to,” Stambaugh explained.  

It might be slow, but females are finally making a comeback to prove to men that females are more than just housewives. 
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“These accomplishments make us females proud. We are proving that we can do the same thing any man can do. We are finally starting to beat the stereotype against women.” Stambaugh said. 

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“Many men do not believe that women can work up to the same ability as them. But these women proved that us females can accomplish anything a man can as long as we put out the effort.” - Senior Emily Falenski