The issue of Navy women in combat has been widely discussed since women first served during World War I. In this paper I intend to present the political, philosophical, and historical reasoning behind the changing of the regulations to allow women in combat. History shows that the Navy has faced political, social, moral and ethical problems of this nature before and has successfully dealt with them. The political interests are highly varied and are a significant force in the debate. Reasons for and against allowing Navy women to serve in combat positions cover such concerns as physical and psychological abilities, the technical nature of warfare, and the need for a larger youth cohort. In January of 1994, the time had come for combat exclusion statutes to be repealed and for the Navy to admit women into combat roles. The issue was at the forefront of the Clinton Administration's agenda and a strong public constituency was in support of eliminating the unethical practices of sexual harassment, fraternization, and other forms of gender related favoritism. The role of women in society, as a whole, had progressed from politically weak positions as homemaker and childbearer to highly influential positions as industry executives and congressional representatives. These elements, coupled with the Navy's historically documented ability to deal effectively with issues of equal opportunity and integration, were the driving force behind the changes. Gender integration will take time and undergo significant growing pains, but with continued support from political and military leadership, proper training of the troops, and the desire to win, the Navy will achieve victory in developing a gender-neutral fleet. / Graduation date: 1995