Udall Welcomes Secretary Panetta's Decision to Ease Restrictions on Roles Women Can Play in Combat Missions

Statement

Mark Udall, who serves on the U.S. Senate Armed Service Committee, welcomed Defense Secretary Leon Panetta's announcement today that he will ease restrictions that prevent women from serving in direct combat military specialties.

"Secretary Panetta's announcement should come as no surprise to anyone who has witnessed the heroic work done in Iraq and Afghanistan by our women in uniform," Udall said. "Over the past decade, countless female troops have distinguished themselves in combat through their professionalism, courage, strength and skill -- and they have earned the opportunity to prove themselves in direct combat units. This decision is the result of years of analysis and observation, and I believe that it will make our military stronger and more capable."

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