The announcement by the Pentagon that the ban on women in the combat has sparked controversy around the nation.

Oregon National Guard spokesman Capt. Steven Bomar says the edict will have the most affect on the Army, Marines and Air Force because the Guard has deployed women for a long time: "Well, we'll see what comes down from our service secretaries on what specific jobs are now going to be open. But we'll continue to recruit the best and the brightest to any of these positions that are available. Interestingly enough, for the Oregon National Guard, this is not going to change us all that drastically, as you know we've been deploying females in combat since the first Gulf War and since 9/11."

Bomar says the change will be phased in over the next few years.

He adds that by lifting the ban, the doors will open for more women to advance in their particular branch of service.