Pride Not Reserved for the Few

By Dan Rubin, KSEE24 News

January 25, 2013 Updated Jan 25, 2013 at 12:19 AM PDT

When she enlisted, combat would've been less likely. For Kimberly Sanchez, the decision would've been the same.

"You like the freedoms you have now? Well you have to do your part."

Her rank suggests the military could use further reforms. Senior Airman Kimberly Sanchez is pleased with the recent shift.

The Pentagon announced Wednesday that women will be allowed to serve in combat. She knew there would be that possibility, even if other women in service did not.

She says her decision to enlist was not easy, especially when it came time for her to deploy to Iraq and Afghanistan. Her time overseas was difficult but fulfilling.

The highest military honors are ascribed to combat. Now that women can enter battle, the tremendous sacrifices they've already made can finally be recognized.