Changing the Rules of Engagement documents the lives of American women in the military, who have shattered the glass ceiling and performed extraordinary feats while serving their country. By telling their stories about their remarkable careers in traditionally male-dominated environments, Martha LaGuardia-Kotite demonstrates how tenacious and courageous women can achieve the unimaginable. 

Among the pioneering women profiled are Gen. Ann E. Dunwoody, the first female four star, Vivien Crea, who, as vice commandant of the Coast Guard held the highest position of any woman in the history of the US military, Tammy Duckworth, a Purple Heart recipient and triple amputee who was shot down in Iraq while piloting a helicopter, and Heather Wilson, an Air Force Academy graduate, Rhodes scholar, and the country's only female veteran in Congress. 

Included are the inspirational stories of women Marines, one of the three female Space Shuttle commanders, and the first female members of the military service academies' gender-integrated classes, who recall the highs and lows of their trailblazing experiences. 

These are only a few of the remarkable women who tell their own inspiring stories. Representative of a widely diverse group of enlisted women and officers from different races and cultures, they have succeeded since the mid-1970s at combating prejudices and aiding change in the military with intelligence, passion, and honor.

The book is published by University of Nebraska Press. The audiobook is published by University Press Audiobooks.

Praise for the book:

“Will surely serve to inspire future generations of young women to follow in their footsteps and achieve excellence in our nation’s armed forces.” (From the foreword by Rep. Jeff Miller (R-FL), chairman, House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs)

“Martha LaGuardia-Kotite deserves our thanks for sharing the incredible stories of those who paved the way for all of us serving today.” (Capt. Melissa Bert, USCG)