Statement by the President on Women in the U.S. Military
One of the qualities that makes
America's armed forces the best in the world is that we draw on the talents and
skills of our people. When we desegregated our military, it became
stronger. In recent years, we ended "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" and
allowed gay and lesbian Americans to serve openly -- and it's made our military
stronger. Over recent decades, we've opened about 90 percent of military
positions to women who time and again have proven that they, too, are
qualified, ready and up to the task. In the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq,
our courageous women in uniform have served with honor, on the front lines --
and some have given their very lives.
Today, the Defense Department is taking
another historic step forward by opening up the remaining 10 percent of
military positions, including combat roles, to women. As Commander in
Chief, I know that this change, like others before it, will again make our
military even stronger. Our armed forces will draw on an even wider pool
of talent. Women who can meet the high standards required will have new
opportunities to serve. I know that, under the leadership of Secretary
Carter and Chairman Dunford, our men and women in uniform will implement this
transition -- as
they have others --
in a responsible manner that maintains military readiness and the
unparalleled professionalism and strength of our armed forces. Together,
we're going to make sure our military remains the finest fighting force in the
history of the world, worthy of all our patriots who serve -- men and
women.
Source: The White House, Office
of the Press Secretary
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