Military opening all combat roles to women
By Bianca Buono
@BBuonoABC6
More than 200,000 military jobs that were for men only can now be filled by women.
"It’s an exciting and positive change that women are going to be able to serve in all aspects of our military right now,” said Congressman Jim Langevin.
Before the groundbreaking decision by the Defense Secretary allowing women to fill all combat roles, women were unable to join Special Forces, drive a tank or serve in a number of restricted combat roles. Congressman Jim Langevin says it’s about time.
"They should not be denied the opportunity to serve in other areas of military service just because of their gender,” Langevin said.
The Pentagon experimented with the idea for years and every branch of the military has been on board except for the Marine Corps, who said they should be allowed to keep women out of certain roles.
"Part of it is tradition then there’s the just because it’s never been done before which I’ve always hated that saying,” Langevin said.
Regardless, the recent decision will apply to everyone. Many are comparing it to the “don’t ask don’t tell” policy that was repealed in 2011.
"That has now changed and it’s based on conduct and ability to serve. That’s how people are judged now and should be judged,” said Langevin.
Women will have to meet same challenging physical requirements of these combat roles in order to obtain them. Langevin says Congress is expected to review and pass this policy so that women can get started by early next year.
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