Women fight for right to combat roles

Gaithersburg soldier among those suing Panetta over exclusion

Staff Sgt. Jennifer Hunt of Gaithersburg , who earned a Purple Heart in Iraq, is one of four servicewomen to end the long-standing policy that excludes women from serving in direct combat. They say the policy is unconstitutional and outdated in an age in which anyone might face hostile fire and women work closely with fighting troops.

/>/>/>/>