Senator Kelly Ayotte said moments ago that she’s “pleased” with Secretary Panetta’s decision to overturn the longstanding ban on women in combat. “I’ve seen firsthand servicemen and women working together in a range of dangerous operations to achieve our military objectives – and today’s announcement reflects the increasing role that female service members play in securing our country,” Ayotte said in a statement. “As the Pentagon begins the review process, I’m also glad that military service leaders will provide guidance on how best to implement this policy change.”