For years servicewomen opposed combat restrictions imposed by our Armed Forces even though they frequently found themselves in combat during the early days of the Gulf War. That is, until our Defense Department lifted its ban against women participating in combat in 2015. American military women now perform all the tasks their male counterparts do, including operating radios, driving trucks, providing medical care and security, disposing of bombs and fighting the enemy. Some have also joined our special forces. More than 30 female Soldiers have joined the Army Rangers but the Navy SEALs have yet to have a woman join their ranks. At least 139 female soldiers have been killed, and more than 800 wounded on Iraq and Afghanistan battlefields since 9/11.

Proposed Legislation: S.1134 - A bill to express the sense of Congress on women in combat (109th Congress 2005-2006)
Prospective Sponsor: Sen. Elissa Slotkin (MI)