The G.I. Janes of Baghdad

The Lipstick Infantry has arrived.

Well, they don't call themselves that, but the people who are now joining Iraq's army are, in fact,  a special breed of soldier.

They are Baghdad's women, still in head scarves under their camouflage,  who are increasingly becoming part of the effort to fortify their country, working to prevent atrocities such as the proliferation of suicide bombers, CNN reports.

There are two sides to the ranks that women in the country are joining, however. One is that of protector (so far, 66 Iraqi women are part of the military there); the other is that of detractor (the number of female suicide bombers more than tripled in 2008).

The program working to recruit women into the army (in administrative positions as well as working at checkpoints), began in the summer of 2009 and offers a glimpse into Baghdad's future, a future secured hopefully by women looking beyond the traditional roles they are relegated to in peaceful ways instead of being recruited to help further the path of violence. The training program, in which the women are taught combat  basics, including firearms lessons, last 45 days.

Working as a part of military also offers a chance for Iraqi women to be more self-sufficient, especially in cases where the husband and father has been killed. A move towards self-reliance and the ability to take care of their families is often the only bright light amidst the continued conflict in the region.  A light that will hopefully shine brighter than the alternative that some of their sisters are turning to which still  can offer only darkness.

Photo courtesy of Moria@Flickr