Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY), Ranking Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee, today issued the following statement on Defense Secretary Leon Panetta’s announcement of an end to the military’s ban on women serving in combat:

“I am pleased Secretary Panetta is leading the way toward more inclusive and capable Armed Forces.  This change will reflect the reality on the battlefield, where women have fought bravely for our country in Iraq and Afghanistan, while giving commanders the time and flexibility to implement this change without disruption on the ground.”

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