The purpose of this thesis is to examine the necessity of Ranger School for a woman to achieve full-career potential after being commissioned in one of the combat arms branches. It is intended specifically for an American military audience. This thesis examines the linkage between credibility and the qualified Ranger leader within combat arms. It includes organizational culture and the impact on fundamental change. Justification for women's attendance is not necessary as the authorization to compete was officially accepted and the implementation guidance for opening job specialties has been published. Full career potential in this study is defined as battalion command within 18-20 years of service. This study will assert that in order to reach full-career potential an Infantry officer should possess a Ranger Tab.

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. The opinions and conclusions expressed herein are those of the student-authors and do not necessarily represent the views of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College or any other governmental agency. (References to these studies should include the foregoing statement.)