(SIOUX CITY, IA) - The Pentagon has lifted its ban on women in combat. A move that many female service members are applauding.
Siouxland News talked to Sergeant Tish Tyson at the 185th Air Refueling Wing. She said lifting the ban won't change the military at all. In fact, back in 1993 females were able to become pilots.
However, two other women in the military believe getting rid of the ban is necessary.
"I think it's a really big step to equal opportunities," said Spc. Brooke Gotschall, U.S. Army Reserve.
That's one opinion on the Pentagon's decision to throw away the ban on women fighting on the front-line of combat zones. Although women in the military said they've been right next to their male counterparts for years.
"We swear in with men and women right next to each other and then since 2003, we've been fighting in Afghanistan and Iraq side by side," said Spc. Tricia Rogers, Iowa National Guard.
As Spc. Gotschall argued, men have their faith in the opposite sex when it comes to fighting for America.
"Just because of their gender shouldn't decide if they should be up on the front line defending this country or not," said Spc. Gotschall.
The policy change will not give these particular women a desire to go after a different job.
"I'm a medic and I definitely love that job. I love being a servant to help the soldiers recover after they've been injured not only overseas, but also here just on normal drill weekends. So I'm comfortable where I'm at, but I'm sure other people would be moving onwards," said Spc. Rogers.
"If duty calls and I have to be up on the front line, then I'll be there, but if not, I'm really comfortable where I am right now," said Spc. Gotschall.
What the ban may change is the want for women to defend their country.
"There's going to be a lot of females I know for a fact that are going to change their jobs or even be more motivated to join the military," said Spc. Gotschall.
When it comes to strength, both women said they understand there have to be limitations.
At this point, the Pentagon is still working on what physical requirements women will have to meet.
