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January 25, 2013

Pentagon Lifts Ban on Women in Combat 
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The Pentagon has officially removed the longstanding military ban on
women in combat. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta formally announced the
move on Thursday in Washington.

Leon Panetta: "It's clear to all of us that women are contributing in
unprecedented ways to the military's mission of defending the nation.
Women represent 15 percent of the force: Over 200,00. They are serving
in a growing number of critical roles on and off the battle field. The
fact is, they have become an integral part of our ability to perform our
mission."

In being officially allowed to serve in combat roles, women will be
afforded opportunities for medals of recognition as well as for
advancement to positions they have been unable to pursue.

 

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