Washington’s abuzz with the Pentagon’s decision to allow women to serve in ground combat. DC808 reports on some reaction from Hawaii’s delegation:

From a press release:

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02) today released the following statement on the news that the Department of Defense will lift the ban on women serving in ground combat roles:

“As a twice-deployed combat veteran, I have a firsthand appreciation and understanding of the contributions women in uniform make every single day, all around the world. …

“Today is a historic day for not only women currently serving in our armed forces, but for all of the women who have selflessly put their lives on the line in theaters of war throughout our nation’s history. Female service members have contributed on the battlefield as far back as the Civil War, when some disguised themselves as men just to have the opportunity to serve their nation. …

“This change is a huge step toward maximizing their potential, and honoring the tremendous sacrifices that our military women have made throughout history.”

—Chad Blair

Photo courtesy US Army Africa.