Breaking Barriers in the U.S. Army
Master Sergeant Janina B. Simmons is set to make history this June by becoming the first female Sergeant Major in the U.S. Army with a Ranger tab. This milestone cements her place among the military’s elite and highlights her resilience, discipline, and commitment to excellence.
Simmons first made headlines in 2019 when she became the first Black woman to graduate from the U.S. Army Ranger School. Now, after 14 years of dedicated service, she is about to achieve another groundbreaking feat. On June 8, 2025, just days before the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary, Simmons will officially be promoted, marking a significant step forward for women in the military.
Overcoming Challenges to Reach the Top
Simmons’ journey has not been easy. She enlisted in the Army to help pay for college, initially unaware of how much she would grow to love the discipline, camaraderie, and opportunities for greatness that military service provided.
During her training, she quickly realized that hard work and a little extra effort could separate the good from the great. She developed a habit of studying military materials whenever possible, striving to excel in every challenge she faced. Her efforts paid off as she graduated with honors from Air Assault School, earned the distinguished honor graduate status at multiple leadership courses, and became a member of the elite Sergeant Audie Murphy Club.
A Historic Achievement for Women in the Military
Women were officially allowed to serve in the U.S. Army in 1948, but it took until 2015 for Ranger School to open its doors to female candidates. Simmons is proud to be part of a new generation of women breaking barriers in the military.
“This is crazy, but in five months on the dot, I will become the FIRST female Ranger-qualified Sergeant Major in the Army,” Simmons shared on Instagram. “It’s not about making history, but it is about chasing after your dreams fearlessly, despite who or what stands in your way.”
Her words reflect the deep sense of purpose that has guided her through tough training, self-doubt, and demanding leadership roles. She is determined to pave the way for future soldiers, especially women, who aspire to reach new heights in their military careers.
Excellence at Every Stage
One of Simmons’ most remarkable achievements is completing Ranger School without being recycled—a process where candidates must repeat sections of training. This speaks to her exceptional skill, endurance, and leadership capabilities.
Her previous successes include excelling in multiple military leadership courses, earning top honors at Drill Sergeant School, and enduring grueling challenges at the Master Gunner Course, where she often survived on just three hours of sleep per night.
Despite her many accolades, Simmons has faced moments of self-doubt. She has spoken openly about experiencing imposter syndrome, often feeling like she didn’t belong in the rooms where she stood among high-ranking officers. However, she refused to let those doubts define her. Instead, she used them as fuel to push forward.
Words of Wisdom for Future Leaders
Simmons believes in continuous growth and the power of perseverance. “Never feel like you have arrived,” she advises. “Once you feel like you’ve arrived, that work ethic disappears. I am so hungry; once I actually pinned the Ranger tab, I felt like I was back at private again. Now I have to work even harder.”
She emphasizes that greatness is not measured by accolades alone but by how one is remembered. “Greatness is relative to what you think greatness is. If you leave the room, how do people talk in your absence?”
As she prepares for her next role as Sergeant Major, Simmons is not just making history—she is shaping the future. Her story serves as an inspiration for soldiers across the ranks, proving that determination, hard work, and an unbreakable spirit can lead to extraordinary achievements.
