SOUND OFF: Should Women Serve in Combat?
The Pentagon lifted its ban Thursday on women serving in combat roles, including roles on the front lines of battle. What do you think about the change? Tell us below.
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The Pentagon made a historic move Thursday when it lifted its ban against women serving in combat, according to USA Today.
A 1994 restriction prevented women in the military from serving in combat, including service on the front lines. However, many argued, including the American Civil Liberties Union, that reality showed women already serving on the front lines.
U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), a member of the Armed Services Committee who strongly supports the historic change, issued the following statement after the announcement.
“I applaud the Secretary for formally removing the ban," Reed said. "The reality of today’s battlefield is that all who serve are in combat.”
The military's lift of the ban opens up 230,000 posts to women in the military, according to USA Today.
We wanted to know what you thought about the military's decision to lift the ban.
On Wrentham Patch's Facebook Page we asked, "Do you think women should serve in combat?" Here's what users had to say:
Joe Manning: If they want to fine. As long as they pass the exact same requirements as the men physically and mentally. No hitting from the ladies tees
Katherine A Silva Perry: If they choose to, why not.
Dan Capone: Not women.... And not men
What do you think about the military lifting the ban? Tell us in the comment section below!
lisa
7:40 pm on Friday, January 25, 2013
Look I am for women taking the role if they can carry a 200 plus PERSON which will wind up being a man out of combat around her shoulders. The forces have a MOTTO LEAVE NO MAN BEHIND!ARE We GOING TO CHANGE THAT TO UNLESS ITS A WOMAN WHO WAS NOT PHYSICAL ABLE TO NOT LEAVE A MAN BEHIND. End of discussion.
Quinton Z
7:50 pm on Friday, January 25, 2013
Half the soldiers out there could or would not do a fireman carry but only a straight drag and cover. I am normally more chauvinistic bit I must say if a woman or man chooses to fight with honor for their country I fully support and honor them and wish them the best regardless of combat or support role.
John Vash
7:58 pm on Friday, January 25, 2013
If a woman feels that she is capable and meets the same requirements as the male counter parts, then she is fit for front line duty. Should the woman receive forbearance due to differences of the sex? No. If they meet the same job requirements then the issue is mute.