Combat For All!

Earlier this week the Pentagon announced its plan to officially allow women in the army to take on combat roles. While women have certainly been in these positions before, they are now officially recognized by the government as being combat soldiers.

The law seems more symbolic than practical, since many women face danger in the army every day. But how is this change going to affect the army and our society?

Since the beginning of human civilization, the warrior class has in most cases been reserved for men. We see images in history textbooks and art of brave men running into the heat of battle. What isn't usually discussed is the role of women in American wars. Women have been participating in battle since the Revolutionary War. They had to dress as men to sneak into the military, or go with their husbands into battle.

I believe recognizing women as soldiers as oppose to "helpers" is a huge step in the right direction. In the future, maybe the idea of a warrior will just be synonymous with a courageous human, and not a specific gender.

Many are worried that sexual tensions among soldiers will compromise our operations. I believe that if our troops understand that they are giving their lives to protect their country, then sexual motives will fade away.

Should women be side-by-side with men in combat positions? Should there be any amendments to what women can do in combat positions?