For the first time ever, two women have passed Army Ranger School – widely considered one of the most physically and mentally grueling courses in the United States military. 

The announcement by the Army Monday is historic. The two women – a captain and a first lieutenant – are the first to pass a course that is a crucial stepping stone to a US Special Operations unit. Though they cannot yet serve as special operators, given the continued ban on women in combat jobs, the Ranger tabs they have earned bring considerable respect. Only 3 percent of all Army troops wear one.

The Ranger graduation ceremony Friday at Fort Benning, Ga., is expected to draw current and retired female officers from across the country who want to take part in such a momentous occasion.