Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center at Fort Hood
For the first time in history a woman graduated as a cavalry scout in the U.S. Army.
Five and a half years ago Sgt. Kayci Landes became a soldier, but there were still some restrictions for females in the military and her dream of serving in a military occupational specialty seemed like it would never come true.
“I've wanted to be a combat MOS since I was about seven,” Landes said.
Back in March, the army announced it would begin integrating women into all military occupations specialties. Meaning they could begin serving in the infantry, armor and special forces.
When she found out that the army had opened up the opportunity for women to serve in special combat roles, she was the first to sign up.
“Follow your dreams. Keep at it. I joined the military and I had to wait five years to follow my dreams, so it can happen,” said Landes.
It took almost 200 hours of intense training with the National Guard for Landes and five other soldiers to earn the cavalry scout title.
“This job is a lot more intricate than I thought and it's interesting and I want to know more about it,” Landes said.
Three weeks later, all six graduated from the program ready to practice their new skills with their fellow soldiers.
“There were definitely some hard moments, but I'm stubborn,” said Landes.
Landes also earned another title, the first female cavalry scout in the U.S. Army.
“It’s an honor,” she said.
“I think she had some dedication and she was motivated to complete all the tasks here at the schoolhouse and she did a good job,” said Army Sgt. Stephen Conwill, a trainer with the Texas National Guard.
Landes hopes that her experience will encourage other women to take on special roles in the Army as well.
“I think that they should leave a legacy of their own and grow and be great soldiers,” she said.
Sgt. Landes will be joining Troop A, 1st Squadron, 7th Cavalry Regiment "Garryowen" to continue practicing her scouting skills.