Thank to a new directive updating its policies, the Army will provide private rooms with a power outlet, water source and lock for active-duty soldiers breastfeeding their babies. It is the last military branch to adopt this policy.
In a directive signed Sept. 29, the Army states that soldiers should inform their chain of command if they continue to breastfeed their newborns after returning to active duty so the right accommodations can be made. Mothers must provide their own breast pumps and equipment.
“Commanders and soldiers will balance lactation support and readiness,” it said.
This move comes only a few weeks after a photo of ten soldiers breastfeeding in uniform went viral. The photo reignited the conversation surrounding breastfeeding in military bases and spread awareness of the problem.