While women have served important roles in the military as far back as the revolutionary war, they have never served in combat positions. All that could soon change as Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta lifted the ban on women in combat today, allowing them to officially serve on the frontlines. Reporter Kristy Lockhart joins us again and talked with local residents to get their opinion on women in combat…
Since 1993 women have been flying combat aircraft, but now they could be marching to the front lines. Retired Marine Chris Beasley thinks this is a positive step for the Military. “I think the more people we got on the frontline that got each others back and got more eyes on each other.” Linda Sherman disagrees. “I don’t think its so much women aren’t capable I just don’t think it’s a place for a woman to be.” One active-duty Marine stationed at Twentynine Palms declined to give his name but says he’s all for women serving in the military as long as they’re not standing next to him. “I don’t think it’s a good idea. I think the combat field, that’s a lot more physically demanding.” Sarah Case leaves for boot camp next week. She doesn’t want anything holding her back. “Anything that levels the playing ground between men and women in the military and in all aspects of life is a good thing.” One question that remains to be answered is whether physical requirements and standards will be the same for women and men.
RESIDENTS REACT TO LIFTING BAN ON WOMEN IN COMBAT
