Scores of troops turned out for the latest Army Servicewomen’s Network Conference at Bristol City Football Club, including Chief of the General Staff, Gen Sir Roly Walker, Army Sergeant Major WO1 John Miller (both shown below) and Commander Field Army, Lt Gen Mike Elviss.
Gen Walker stressed that women were essential in the mission to increase lethality.
He said: “When I commissioned, there were parts of the army where the idea of women in ground close combat roles would have been considered unworkable. That mindset is changing slowly, sometimes unevenly, but change it must. And I am clear we are better, stronger and more lethal because of that.
“War does not care about gender or bias, because talent is talent. We cannot afford to ignore half the population if we want to be the best.”
Underscoring the importance of recruiting and retaining females, Gen Walker added: “This is not a nice-to-have, it’s mission critical.”
The head of the service was speaking as delegates thrashed out issues ranging from female health to dealing with unacceptable behaviour.
The event marked the tenth anniversary of the network (Soldier, July).
Panel discussions were led by junior NCOs and private soldiers, and the audience got to hear about ongoing studies of female health and fitness.
There was a Q&A with senior leaders from the army’s unacceptable behaviours team plus a seminar focused on the military justice system.
Network co-chair Lt Col Sam Dodge (RLC) said she was delighted with the turnout and the presence of army top brass.
She told Soldier: “Our organisation continues to go from strength to strength.
“Having the chief of the general staff and commander Field Army in the room definitely helped, and their presence was very much appreciated.
“It really sent a strong message about the commitment of our senior leaders.”
