Yesterday, to the horror of traditionalists and the delight of modernisers, the British Army lifted its ban on women soldiers in close combat, including the special forces. Careers as regulars in the Special Air Service and the Royal Marines’ Special Boat Service also beckon for the very toughest female soldiers and marines. The announcement will enable women to fight in tanks from November and sign up to the infantry, the Royal Marines and the RAF Regiment by the end of 2018. The change in the rules will be a historic moment for British servicewomen Peter Nicholls for The TimesIt is an issue that has divided opinion in the officers’ mess for years. Selection has technically been open…

Source: The Times July 08, 2016 11:03 UTC