Naval Academy almost ready to open female recruits to Navy SEAL screening

Cold Weather Training instructors monitor SEAL Qualification Training candidates in near freezing water during a rewarming exercise. Candidates completed the rewarming exercise after spending 48 hours in the Alaskan mountains learning how to navigate through the rugged terrain and survive the frigid conditions. The 28-day cold weather training course taught in Kodiak is part of a year-long process to become a U.S. Navy SEAL. (U.S. Navy Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Erika N. Manzano/Released)

The U.S. Naval Academy superintendent says the school will be ready to open its screening process for Navy SEALs next year to women who are juniors at the academy.

Vice Adm. Walter “Ted” Carter said Monday that doesn’t necessarily mean women will go through the 24-hour marathon screening process in the spring. That’s because the academy is still waiting for specific guidance from the Navy. However, he says the academy will be prepared when directed to open the rigorous process that tests physical, mental and teamwork abilities.

That means women from the Class of 2017 could be the first to become SEALs. The screening process is a gateway to additional training in the summer.

Last week, Defense Secretary Ash Carter announced the military will open all combat jobs to women.

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