Synopsis

SISTERS IN ARMS reveals the untold stories of three remarkable women in the most difficult and dangerous military professions facing combat on the frontlines in Afghanistan.  Corporal Katie Hodges is a determined infantry soldier; Corporal Tamar Freeman, a trained medical professional; and Master Corporal Kimberlely Ashton, a combat engineer and mother who has left behind three young daughters.

Who are these women and how did they get there?

We hear from veterans of the combat trades including Brigadier General Chris Whitecross, one of Canada’s highest ranking woman in the military and Lieutenant Colonel Anne Reiffenstein, the first female artillery officer. We will also meet the mothers, fathers and sisters who openly discuss their fears, and bravely support their loved ones.

Using video diaries filmed by the soldiers in Afghanistan and intimate personal interviews, SISTERS IN ARMS tells their stories of loss and inspiration from a uniquely female perspective, challenging our perceptions of what constitutes a soldier.

Historical Note:

There are only a handful of countries that permit women to fight in ground combat.  In 1989 Canada opened up all military positions to women and in 2005, women fought in frontline combat for the first time.  In 2013, the U.S. Pentagon lifted its ban on women in combat roles and, for the first time in American history, women will be permitted to train as combat soldiers.