Team Lioness: Interview with Captain Anastasia Breslow

Read Breslow’s diary excerpts >>

“…when I got home I wanted to go back; it was great to be home, I appreciated everything so much more. But everyday life seemed so average and there was still more work to be done over there.”

— Captain Anastasia Breslow

What have you been doing since filming ended in August 2007?

I remained on active duty, completed company command and moved to my next assignment at Fort Bragg, where I am currently a part of a training brigade that prepares reserve units to deploy to Iraq and Afghanistan.

How do you think your experiences in combat as a woman differ from those of men?

It is my experience that people interact differently with female soldiers, whether it is other soldiers or the civilian population, hence our value on the Lioness missions. To me it’s the outside reactions that shape the difference more than any disparity in training, mentality or perspective.

What was/is your day-to-day role during active duty?

My specialty is communications. Whether leading signal soldiers or planning signal operations as a part of a staff, it is making sure the war fighters are able to communicate.

What most surprised you about your time in Iraq?

That when I got home I wanted to go back; it was great to be home, I appreciated everything so much more. But everyday life seemed so average and there was still more work to be done over there.

What about your experience would you like to communicate to the American public?

There are some goals worth sacrificing for and succeeding in Iraq is one that I have already done and will likely do again, willingly.

How has your service affected your family?

It tests my marriage but every separation, every challenge we overcome makes us stronger together. My family could not be more proud.

What would your advice be to an 18-year-old woman entering the military?

Be prepared for challenges and then enjoy learning that you are stronger than you ever thought you could be. Remember the tradition you represent and live up to the ideals of a true profession.

What is your relationship like with your commander?

You never thought working so late and facing so many challenges could be entirely fulfilling and yet it is. As for that female part, other than the ability to enjoy giggling without getting strange looks, I never felt that the company, my peers or my leaders treated me any differently.

Read an interview with Staff Sergeant Ranie Ruthig >>

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