Grace Cussons, 28, has become the first female reservist to pass the British Army’s challenging paratrooper entry test, joining a select group of women who have completed the demanding selection process for the Parachute Regiment. Lance Corporal Cussons achieved this milestone after rigorous preparation alongside her full-time corporate career.

The paratrooper selection course, known as P-Company, involves several strenuous tasks, including a ten-mile march carrying a 35-pound (16-kilogram) load that must be completed within two hours. Candidates also undergo an aerial confidence course designed to test their ability to operate in airborne environments. Additionally, soldiers face ’milling,’ a physical and psychological test where participants engage in a 60-second boxing bout without defending themselves or avoiding punches, emphasizing aggression and resilience.

Cussons’ accomplishment follows those of Captain Rosie Wild, who became the first woman of any rank to pass the P-Company course in 2020, and Private Addy Carter, who succeeded at age 21 in 2022. Cussons’ achievement marks a notable step for female soldiers serving in the reservist ranks.

In a personal reflection, Cussons shared that she passed the test exactly one year after the death of her friend, Household Cavalry officer Lizzie Godwin, who initially inspired her to take on the challenge. Cussons succeeded on her second attempt after extensive training, committing to eight sessions a week while working as a senior commercial strategy manager for consumer goods giant Procter & Gamble.

Despite her military success, Cussons has not stepped away from her corporate career. She recently started a new role at the oral care brand Suri, balancing her professional ambitions alongside her military service. Her dual commitment highlights the increasingly diverse backgrounds of those serving in modern armed forces reservist roles.