Sen. McCain supports the move and says the military should keep its high standards . The American Civil Liberties Union recently filed a federal lawsuit against the Department of Defense , charging that combat exclusion is unfair and outdated , harms America 's safety and prevents women from receiving training and recognition for their work . Sen. Murray points out women already serve in combat . Officials say Panetta will announce it is opening combat jobs to women . Panetta hopes the process will be complete by December 2016 , officials say .
Sen. McCain supports the move and says the military should keep its high standards . Sen. Murray points out women already serve in combat . Officials say Panetta will announce it is opening combat jobs to women . Panetta hopes the process will be complete by December 2016 , officials say .