Heat Sickens Citadel’s First Woman Cadet

The first woman cadet in the 152-year history of The Citadel was unable to take her oath Monday because she was in the infirmary, one of five cadets affected by 100-degree heat.

Shannon Faulkner first was treated when she became ill after lunch. She later returned to the infirmary and was expected to be held overnight for observation.

Faulkner was stricken during the routine of marching, shouting, marching, saluting and more marching that the school calls training by stress. Cadets commonly call it “hell week.”

Faulkner, who plays the flute, also learned she had passed her band audition, leaving a federal judge to decide if she will move into the band barracks.

Cadets will take a preliminary physical fitness test Wednesday.

Faulkner must meet Army requirements for women, including running two miles in 18 minutes, 54 seconds. She must do 18 pushups and 50 sit-ups in two minutes each; men must do 42 pushups and 52 sit-ups. Students who don’t meet the standards are put on remedial training but are not dismissed.