Warner, Kaine praise move to allow women in military combat

Defense Secretary Leon Panetta announced on Wednesday a lifting of the ban on women serving in military combat. U.S. Sens. Mark Warner and Tim Kaine issued statements of praise for the move.

“After two wars over 10 years in which our enemies did not recognize a clear ‘front,’ it is appropriate that we recognize the realities of modern military combat,” said Warner, D-Va., a member of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence. “It is entirely appropriate to open front-line combat opportunities to American military women, who have repeatedly demonstrated their competence, bravery, and reliability serving our nation in times of war.   We also must ensure that when our warriors return from combat, we provide them with the top quality V-A services and support they have earned.”

“I support the recommendation by the Joint Chiefs of Staff to allow women to fully serve to the best of their abilities in the military,” said Kaine, D-Va. “Despite the 1994 executive prohibition, women have been serving in combat zones and facing personal risk for some time. Some have suffered serious life-altering injuries and others have paid the ultimate sacrifice.  Today’s announcement spotlights this reality, honors those contributions, and represents an important step forward for our nation’s armed services community.

“In the same way that President Truman’s order integrating the military paved the way for broader progress towards racial equality, the military’s leadership in allowing women to serve to their full capacity will expand opportunities for women throughout society,” Kaine said.