Women have served in the United States Armed Forces in some capacity during every military conflict of our nation’s history. In addition to the recognized clerical and medical support service roles, they have been de facto involved in combat situations despite being officially banned from combat.

The ability for women to formally serve in the military began in the early 20th century when the Army and Navy Nurse Corps created service roles during World War II due to the need for manpower. Social changes in the latter half of the 20th century ended the draft, thus beginning the All-Volunteer Force. The movement for equal rights for women during that time period led to more integration in the military. Despite this, women were still banned from combat.

In 2013, a national policy change occurred following a unanimous recommendation by the Joint Chiefs of Staff to end the direct ground combat exclusion rule for female service members. This decision opened more than 230,000 military positions that were previously closed to women and ensured that the best qualified and most capable service members have an opportunity to serve their country regardless of gender.

Please join me in securing full equality for women in the United States Armed Forces by urging Congress to amend the Military Selective Service Act to require both men and women to register for selective service.