You’re kind to say that.
The most resilient, strongest, powerful women I have met in the military seemed to have parents who believed in them and their abilities and taught them to hold boundaries and not take any pick-your-word from anyone, while encouraging kindness (but not doormattishness), integrity, physical self-confidence and high regard for their own bodies and how and with whom they shared that part of their lives.
A sense of humor and what really matters in life are also helpful, as is the ability to get along with people in stressful and everyday situations.
As I have noted before, I have my share of #militarymetoo stories, but far more positive sea stories over the course of my military and civilian careers. Everything I am today, good and bad, is a product of past experience. I learned how to have a professional game face in awful situations, grew a thick skin, and learned from bad leaders what not to do.
Sea story from my personal locker: Back in the mists of the late 20th c., a Chief of Staff O-6 was debriefing my fitness report to me, a LCDR department head. It was all good, and then there came the “but” - “You’re too strong, and it’s just not feminine. When I look at you, all I can see is a woman.” Me: (WTH? Ewwww...) “Uh, yes sir.” I didn’t change a thing, got the top ranking of DHs, waited out that COS and absolutely loved the next COS.
As for ScoutKids - I bet they grow up to know and speak their minds just like their dad.
@Hurricane12
@usna1985
and others not to overlook!