Brittney Harding enlisted in the U.S. Air Force as a Security Forces member. Despite two overseas tours, her biggest challenge was discovering how to be a happy working Mom.
Brittney’s military journey began long before she actually enlisted. Her father served nearly 27 years in the Army and during that time, she fell in love with the military lifestyle and camaraderie that came along with it.
An American Woman, Serving her Country
Life Perspective: A Wife and Mother Serving Active Duty Military, Security Forces:
- No goal is too big
- Stop letting fear and excuses limit you
- Juggling work and motherhood is a legitimate challenge
- Serving in the military as a female is a different level of hard
- Pave the way for the next generation of strong female leaders
Enlisting in the Air Force
In 2011, Brittney decided to enlist in the U.S. Air Force as a Security Forces member, otherwise referred to as Military Police.
Within my career field, the number of females is even more scarce
Service member Brittney Harding, on women in the military
This incredible woman is charged with defending an an entire installation and its resources, along with the tens of thousands of fellow service members and their families (no pressure lol).
Doing What it Takes
Although her job is both physically and mentally demanding, Brittney says that she truly believes that it is one of the greatest jobs on the planet.
During time served at her first duty station (Ellsworth AFB, South Dakota), Brittney served two tours overseas, married her wonderful husband (and fellow service member), and was blessed with a beautiful baby girl.
In 2016, she said goodbye to the snow and hello to hundred degree temperatures at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, Texas, where she is currently serving.
Life as a Woman in the Military
Does Brittney face any struggles as a female in the military? You bet!
She says that serving is hard, and that serving as a female is a completely different level of hard. “It is no secret that the armed forces are made up by a male majority. Within my career field, the number of females is even more scarce.”
Combating Gender Stereotypes
Brittney says that one of the biggest challenges is combating gender stereotypes. “While it shouldn’t be this way, often times as a female I have to work twice as hard to command the same respect as my male counterparts.”
stop settling and start believing in yourself- PERIOD
Brittney Harding, on her advice to all women
“I think women who serve have made tremendous strides over the last several decades,” she continues, “and I believe it is up to the ones such as myself who are serving now to continue to pave the way for the next generation of strong female leaders.”
When asked about her advice for all women, Brittney says, “Stop letting fear and excuses limit you. No goal is too big, no dream is too far out of your reach. You ARE capable, so stop settling and start believing in yourself- PERIOD.”
Brittney’s Advice for Working Moms
Brittney believes that her biggest challenge is juggling motherhood while serving.
She says that even though some days the idea of being at home with her daughter (and hanging up the combat boots) is all she wants to do, she serves anyway.
“I do it so that others might not have to, because I love my country, and because I am proud to be protecting the ones I love.”
How you can Support the Mission:
In recognition of Brittney’s courage to be in the line of fire, we’re treating her to a 1-year subscription to the HelloMissilia box. If your company or organization supports strong women, please consider sponsoring our heroes by checking out our Sponsorship Information or emailing info@hellomissilia.com.
You can help ensure that stories of women who kick butt, like Brittney, are being shared and celebrated! Send this article out to your social media networks; spreading the word about women like Brittney keeps encouraging women to do great things.
note: this article was originally published on our sister site: https://hellomissilia.com/blogs/news/celebrating-missili
