The Women of the Arizona Rangers: Bringing Unique Qualities to an Important Role
By Tara Fort
With roots dating back to 1901, the Arizona Rangers have served communities in various capacities as an armed, uniformed, volunteer law enforcement auxiliary. The group provides additional services at the request of federal, state, county or local law enforcement.
Locally, Arizona Rangers have made appearances at Shop With A Cop, National Night Out, the Boys and Girls Club events, and with families of fallen officers. To preserve its mission nationally and historically, the group relocated and expanded the Arizona Rangers State Museum to its new location in the town of Tombstone.
Lt. Col. Lisa Penney, currently based in the Tombstone Company, stated, “Coupled with the strong trust, mutual respect, and close relations we’ve built with the Marshal’s Office and our community, Tombstone is filled with historical artifacts and stories that honor the legacy of the Rangers.”
The Arizona Rangers today boasts 500 active members across 24 companies comprised of women and men mostly from military and law enforcement backgrounds.
Penny, whose leadership extends statewide, said the Rangers welcome and encourage qualified and eligible women into all areas of service. And, “Although [women] remain outnumbered within the organization, the number of women has increased steadily since 1957 as more women are stepping up to serve their communities through our mission.”
All Rangers work in pairs or with a sworn officer, adhering to the powers of the Arizona Revised Statutes or by the authority agency the Rangers are assisting. Rangers can provide foot patrols, secure crime scenes, oversee bailiff duty, support disaster patrols, assist with search and rescue efforts, manage DUI stops with checkpoint assistance, and provide traffic control on private property, as well as other armed uniformed security services. Paramount for women who would like to explore the opportunities provided by the Arizona Rangers include unwavering commitment and integrity to the cause, as well as possessing those special skill sets many women bring to the table.
Prior to her service as an Arizona Ranger and with a background in law enforcement, Penney raised six children and built careers as a nurse and business owner. She stated that her background “certainly helped me transition into this role, although it is by no means a requirement. Women from all walks of life—educators, tech professional, pilots, ranchers, business leaders and more—bring unique skills and dedication to serve our mission. She added, “Women face challenges that can develop into sharing strong camaraderie and leadership opportunities with their unique strengths in communication, community engagement, and emotional intelligence—qualities that serve well in both public-facing and common roles. Whether it’s community outreach, event security, administrative roles or leadership, there is no limit to where women can richly contribute.”
To find out more about qualifications and how to become involved with the Arizona Rangers, visit azrangers.us.