Defense Secretary Ash Carter is opening all combat jobs to women.

Carter told a Pentagon briefing that the modern military can't afford to cut itself off from more than half of the nation's talents and skills.

Carter argued that there should be no barriers that limit access to talent.

He said, "Everyone who's able and willing to serve their country should have the full and equal opportunity to do so."

All branches of the military will have until January 1st to make the historic changes.

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