Do not consider me impertinent for believing that we have been cheated of our identities as female soldiers. However, being in the midst of a male dominated profession, has frequently left me pondering the true purpose of women, in the Jamaica Defence Force.

My first impression of the Jamaica Defence Force was that it was an organisation to be regarded with great respect. I was even enthused with the thought of being considered a member of such a well-recognised organization. I looked with great expectations towards my military career.

At the "cradle" New Castle, we tried our best as female recruits although at times we felt like intruders in a man’s world. We endured all the rigours, hardships and emotional tests which accompany the training that transforms a civilian into a soldier. However, despite the hardships we faced, never once did we give up hope. Instead we were stronger, more determined as we aimed for higher heights. We succeeded in our endurance runs, progress tests, practical and theoretical training and often times did far better than the men. Side by side we fought with the competent ‘men’ and for twenty-one weeks we endured the same rigorous training as they did. However, despite our never-ending efforts, we were never seen as being their equals.

It is true that this is a male dominated field, but one would think that after being equally trained, working twice as hard to prove ourselves worthwhile, and standing firmly by their sides as we graduated and marched off Sir William Gomm’s square, that we would have earned by merit, the right to be acknowledged as equally competent to probe the ‘front line’.

The true essence of soldiering has been somewhat depreciated over the years, but we as soldiers, men and women alike, are dedicated to serving our country to the best of our ability and regaining the level of stability, respect and recognition we once had.