Sumter, SC (WLTX) -- Shaw Air Force Base is hoping a new program will empower their female soldiers in the Third Army to become better leaders.
"I think that this is something that probably more units in the active duty military should implement," Staff Sgt. Cylenia Harvey said.
The third Army kicked off "Sisters In Arms" at Shaw Airforce Base. With about 40 attendees of female soldiers and civilians, the women were able to express their experiences.
"Being in the Army for 19 years, I pretty much think that I know how to solve a problem or go about how to handle trials when they come about," Harvey said. "But, it's always nice to see a bunch of other people in a giant forum come together and give it from their point of view."
Not only is the organization in place to create a safe haven to talk freely, but also to provide female-to-female mentorship, which isn't all that common.
"I was mentored when I first came in, but I was mentored by males. So there were issues I couldn't discuss with them," Sgt. Maj. Tessie Coe said.
Coe said harassment or medical issues may be uncomfortable for female soldiers to talk about with their male counterparts. But for Harvey, having a mentor was a luxury.
"Not every place that I've been has there been a push for mentorship," Harvey said. "Whether it's for females or whether it was for soldiers at all."
And members at Shaw's Operational Command Post in Kuwait weren't left out. They had their meting a couple weeks ago. Across the sea and right here at Shaw, the goal of Sisters In Arms is simple.
"Everybody has strengths and weaknesses, but collectively we can be better individuals and a better organization," said Lt. Col. Stacie Hatten.
Sisters In Arms will be holding meetings once every month.