40-Year-Old Veteran Triumphs in Cross-Country, Defies Odds

Drea Gibson, a 40-year-old college sophomore, has made headlines not only for her athletic prowess but also for her remarkable journey as a veteran of the U.S. Army. Recently, she was named first-team all-conference in the Division III American Southwest Conference, showcasing her talent as a cross-country runner. This achievement is particularly striking given her extensive military background, which includes 20 years of service, during which she completed five tours of duty.

Gibson, who retired as a first sergeant last year, has overcome numerous challenges. She served in conflict zones including Iraq and Afghanistan, earning a Combat Action Badge for her bravery. Her experiences reflect a broader narrative about women’s roles in the military, especially in light of recent actions by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who has been criticized for his stance on women in combat roles.

From Soldier to Student-Athlete

As a wife and mother of four, Gibson balances her responsibilities with her studies as an exercise physiology major at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor in Texas. Her journey into the military began after the September 11 attacks, which inspired her to enlist while still in high school in Canton, Ohio. Initially trained as a counterintelligence agent, Gibson often found herself as the only woman in combat situations.

Reflecting on her early experiences, she recalled the challenges of operating in a male-dominated environment. “As a leader in the Army, a major goal of mine was to ensure that I treated all of my soldiers equally,” Gibson stated in a recent interview. She faced significant obstacles, including being excluded from certain activities due to her gender.

Running became a form of escape for Gibson, a way to channel her frustrations and cope with the isolation she often felt. “They said, ‘Because you’re a woman, we don’t want to take you out,’” she recounted. Despite the adversity, her determination to succeed never wavered.

Challenging Military Standards

Gibson’s story also raises questions about the current state of military policies regarding women. Under Hegseth’s directive, new standards for physical training tests are set to be implemented, which could disadvantage women in combat roles. Gibson expressed concern over these developments, stating, “I understand the need for this standard… but it doesn’t feel fair.”

Her perspective as a combat veteran provides valuable insight into the complexities of military fitness standards. While she was able to meet the maximum scores for female soldiers, she often performed at average levels when assessed against male standards. “What this would mean now for a female in combat is that she can be the top 1% of females in her physical fitness level and still be at a major disadvantage for promotions and schools,” she explained.

Despite these challenges, Gibson remains an inspiration. After her recent conference meet, a young runner approached her seeking advice about pursuing a commission in the Army. Gibson encouraged her, recognizing the importance of paving the way for future generations of female soldiers.

As the holiday shopping season approaches, Gibson’s multifaceted identity as a soldier, mother, and athlete resonates deeply. Her story serves as a testament to resilience and the ongoing fight for equality within the military and beyond. The impact of her journey extends far beyond the track, inspiring others to overcome their own obstacles in pursuit of their aspirations.