The American Civil Liberties Union is suing the U.S. military over its longstanding policy barring women from ground combat. Lawyers for the civil rights group filed suit in federal court in Northern California claiming the policy is unconstitutional because it bars women from most combat roles based on gender.

The suit filed on behalf of four women soldiers who fought in Iraq or Afghanistan argues the combat exclusion denies women promotion and career opportunities. The lawsuit names Defense Secretary Leon Panetta as a defendant.


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Poll: Do you think women in the miitary should be able to serve in ground combat roles?
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