Conversation with Retired Brig. General Rebecca Halstead
STEADFAST
- Selfless Service
- Trust and Tenacity
- Encourage and Embrace
- Attitude and Approachability
- Discipline
- Family, Friends and Faith
- Accountability
- Standard Setter
- Teamwork
PneumaReview.com: What were some of the special challenges you faced as the first woman to become a General Officer?
Halstead: Candidly, the challenges I faced as a female General were not unlike the challenges I faced my entire career as a female officer. Oftentimes, as the only woman in the room or the only woman commander in an organization, I had to work hard to earn the respect of the men on the team. No doubt, there were times I had to work harder at this than my male peers because of the stereotyping, but I believe each of us has a responsibility to earn the respect of others. So, I tried to look at it as my responsibility as a leader, not as a requirement because I was a woman. I never touted that my desire to serve my country was greater than a man’s, but I did make it perfectly clear that my desire was not less than a man’s!
As a General and a senior leader for the army, I was reminded by senior Generals to not “rock the boat” on issues like women in combat assignment policies or women not being allowed to serve in all branches, like infantry or armor. Although I complied while on active duty, I have taken a much stronger stance on these issues in retirement. For me, every American, male or female, ought to have the right and privilege to serve in any capacity for his or her country, as long as he or she meets the standards required. I don’t agree with exclusion nor do I agree with inclusion without standards. I had no desire to serve in the infantry, but just because I personally had no desire does not mean women should not be allowed. If you meet the standard, you should be given the opportunity. I believe the same in the corporate sector. God created man and woman, equally. We honor Him when we use the talents He created uniquely in us.
I exercised my faith in God all the time. On a daily basis I have always grounded myself with prayer and time for devotion. I believe actions speak louder than words, and I have simply wanted my life to reflect God’s love in me and my love for God. I have tried to stay disciplined and live out my values for others to see. Where I have failed, I have asked forgiveness and tried to improve myself. My grandmother always taught us that we stand our tallest when we are on our knees (in prayer). Prayer has been the single most important practice in my life. For many years I have maintained a prayer warrior book, and others have reached out to me asking for me to pray for them and the challenges they faced. Prayer is what matures my relationship with God and with others.
PneumaReview.com: What are some practical things churches can do to support the men and women who are currently serving in the armed forces?
Halstead: I believe our churches play a pivotal role in supporting our military men and women, past and present. We are to be encouragers and many need encouragement. Some of our men and women are broken—emotionally, physically and spiritually. Each have different needs, but we can reach out to them to remind them their lives have purpose, that we are available to them, and that we are grateful for their service to our country.
PneumaReview.com: What are some of the most meaningful ways civilians have expressed gratitude to you for your service?
Halstead: By simply saying thank you!
Category: Living the Faith, Summer 2014