Policy Briefing Regarding Women in Combat Positions Women in the military can be as effective in combat as their male counterparts, however policies need to be in place to address issues inherent in the argument, such as physical strength and pregnancy.

Women have a long history as participants in battle.

Joan of Arc successfully led 1429 French men in battle against the English

Women often disguised themselves as men and participated in the Revolutionary and Civil wars.

In 1942 separate military duties and roles for women were established.

Women were no longer allowed to pilot aircraft.

Women were restricted from potentially hostile situations.

Recent legislation has caused the position on women's roles...

in combat to be re-examined.
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which ensures all individuals are treated equally before the law with respect to civilian employment, does not apply to the military profession.

In 1992, the Defense Authorization Act repealed the combat exclusion law for women in the Navy and Air Force.

In 1993 President Clinton ended combat exclusion for women on combatant ships.

In 1994, a new policy allowed women to serve with some ground combat troops.

Women currently account for a highest percentage of military personnel than ever before.

Even though the government has mandated that women not be excluded from any position due to gender, many military officials are still reluctant to place women…