DoD opens up combat positions to women

2/13/2012

Just days after President Barack Obama nominated someone who could potentially be the first female four-star general in the history of the Air Force, the Pentagon made another step forward for women in the military. The Department of Defense loosened rules regarding women on the front lines, a move which could open up additional jobs to female soldiers, Military Times reports.

It's a small step forward as it will only make about 1 percent more jobs available to women, but it's significant nonetheless. Additionally, Pentagon officials stress that this is likely only the first step in providing more jobs to women in the military.

"While practical barriers do still exist to removing other restrictions on women serving, we are reviewing those to see if more opportunities can be opened," Pentagon spokesman George Little told the publication. "We need time, experience and careful review to ensure that we do so in a way that maximizes the safety and privacy of all service members."

Although the new rules, which are set to take effect this spring, have been applauded by many, they are not without their critics. Presidential candidate former Sen. Rick Santorum told reporters over the weekend that women would distract men from the mission at hand, according to CNN.com