Meet Captain Molly Murphy, the First Female Nurse to Conquer Ranger School and Inspire Healthcare Heroes

Captain Molly Murphy, a trailblazing ICU nurse from Colorado, has shattered glass ceilings by becoming the first female nurse to successfully complete the grueling Ranger School training in the Army. Her remarkable journey from Highlands Ranch High School to the University of Nebraska for ROTC and nursing to her current role as a pediatric ICU nurse at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center exemplifies her unwavering dedication to service and excellence in healthcare.

Daily Nurse proudly honors Captain Murphy as the Nurse of the Week and celebrates her exceptional blend of strength, compassion, and resilience, which sets her apart in the field of nursing. Her incredible achievements and relentless pursuit of challenges inspire her colleagues and women aspiring to make a difference in their respective fields.

Murphy’s relentless drive for excellence is evident in her competitive spirit, which her two older brothers instilled in her from a young age. She has always pushed herself to new heights, from conquering the ski slopes to excelling on the rugby field. Her participation in various Army competitions and training programs, including the Best Medic Competition, Airborne, Air Assault, and Jungle Schools, demonstrates her commitment to continuous growth and skill development.

Ranger School, a 62-day intense program designed to test participants’ physical and mental endurance, presented Captain Murphy with her most formidable challenge yet. Despite facing sleep deprivation, hunger, and physical hardships, she persevered through the demanding course, even enduring a foot infection that required surgery. Her sacrifices, including shaving her head, symbolize her willingness to embrace discomfort and sacrifice for the greater good.

As the 144th woman to complete Ranger School, Captain Murphy acknowledges the trailblazers who paved the way before her, viewing her accomplishment as a collective victory for women in the military. Her encouragement to fellow female nurses and aspiring servicewomen reflects her belief in the power of perseverance and courage in pursuing one’s dreams.

Looking ahead, Captain Murphy’s aspirations extend beyond her remarkable achievements in the Army and nursing field. With a vision to serve as the White House nurse and ultimately become a devoted stay-at-home mom, she embodies the essence of a true leader with a compassionate heart and unwavering determination. Captain Molly Murphy’s journey inspires all women to fearlessly pursue their ambitions and break barriers in their chosen paths.

Nominate a Nurse of the Week! Every Wednesday, DailyNurse.com features a nurse making a difference in the lives of their patients, students, and colleagues. We encourage you to nominate a nurse who has impacted your life as the next Nurse of the Week, and we’ll feature them online and in our weekly newsletter.

Author
Recent Posts

Renee Hewitt

Editor & Content Strategist at Springer Publishing

Renee is the editor and content strategist for Daily Nurse. When enjoying life unplugged from the digital world, you'll find Renee on a trail taking wildlife photos or birdwatching.