Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Lasonya Morales | Lt. Col. Charcillea Schaefer, commander and Command Sgt. Maj. Shelly Marlowe, command...... read more read more
The role of women in the military, as well as American society has evolved and continues to evolve. Women’s History Month is a time to reflect on the contributions of women and share their stories.
For the command team of the 728th Military Police Battalion, 8th Military Police Brigade, Women’s History Month also presents an opportunity to share their stories of overcoming adversity to help inspire anyone wishing to break into a challenging career field.
With over 62 years of combined service, Lt. Col. Charcillea Schaefer, Command Sgt. Maj. Shelly Marlow, and Maj. Jennifer Fauth currently serve as the 728th MP BN Command team, responsible for the leading more than 1000 Soldiers.
“I think it is important to celebrate the achievements and successes of women who have sought out ways to better themselves and better others from roles or positions not previously held or open to women,” said Maj. Jennifer Fauth, 728th Military Police Battalion, Executive Officer.
Fauth, a South Carolina native, said women who have defined gender roles have created opportunities for other women to pursue their passions and demonstrate their capabilities to the world.
This is not the first time, that these leaders have crossed paths; they previously served together in the XVIII Airborne Corps during a time when it was rare to see an all-female command team.
Throughout their individual careers they said they’ve all endured challenges, praised successes but also welcomed and embraced change.
“Initially my best friend and I wanted to join the Marines on the buddy system, but when we went to the recruiting office no one would talk to us,” said Marlowe. “Therefore, I went to the Army recruiting station and enlisted for five years as an MP.”
Marlowe enlisted in the Army in 1988 when there were only all female platoons; female Soldiers were not allowed to integrate and train with their male counterparts.
During Marlowe’s career she has also held the title of “first” for many key leadership positions within the MP Corps.
“I was the first female squad leader in a division MP Company, the first female First Sergeant of the 511th MP Co. as well as the first female at the 728th MP BN.
Lt. Col. Schaefer, commander of the 728th MP BN since June 2018 describes being a commander as one of the most rewarding experiences.
Schaefer attributes her military family background as one of her driving forces to serve.
“I grew up in a military family. My father was in the Air Force, my grandfather served in the Pacific Theater during World War II, my uncle was also in the Air Force, and another uncle was in the Marine,” said the West Point Graduate. “ The culture of service was strong in my family.
Schaefer said that during her career she has never seen an all-female command team.
“I was platoon leader in 2003 the company commander was female and for a short time three out of the four platoon leaders were female, I have served in units where the female demographic hovered around 7% to 10% of the formation.”
“The opportunity to be a part of the 728th “Warfighter” team has been the greatest time of my career. I absolutely love coming to work every day and would not trade a minute of this incredible opportunity.”
Schaefer offers advice to professionals to lean on professionalism and competence to overcome any biases.
“The biggest change during my service has been the repeal of “Don’t Ask Don’t” Tell” and opening jobs and branches to women, said Schaefer. “I am grateful that the Army has recognized that, regardless of demographic, if a Soldier meets the standard he or she should be afforded the opportunity to serve.”
For Maj. Fauth, her experiences within the military have been positive.
“I believe that women who have defied gender roles have created opportunities today for women and men to pursue their passions and demonstrate their capability to the world.”
Fauth said the many female forerunners before me are the fact that I am here.
“Lt. Col. Schaefer and Command Sgt. Maj. Marlowe are both from different times and have experienced different things throughout their career, but what I have learned from them is that is it possible to be true to yourself and still be successful on your own merit,” said Fauth.
| Date Taken: | 03.26.2019 |
| Date Posted: | 03.27.2019 19:04 |
| Story ID: | 315761 |
| Location: | SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, HI, US |
| Web Views: | 1,007 |
| Downloads: | 2 |
This work, All female MP command team reflect on past challenges to inspire future leaders, by SFC Lasonya Morales, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
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