WETUMPKA, AL (WSFA) -
In a math class at Wetumpka High School, Heather Lockman has already made the calculated risk to join the military. Lockman welcomes the Pentagon's decision this week to allow women to serve in combat roles and plans to enter active duty after college.
"Not a lot women can do this but I believe I can and I think it's fair," said Lockman.
Down the hall best friend Jessica Flue is concentrating on her Spanish. Much like Lockman Flue is a ROTC student but unlike her friend, Flue does not agree with the Pentagon's move.
"I just don't think women are as strong as men. I worry about the safety part of it. I know I couldn't do it," says Flue.
Heather is all of five foot two, 18-years old, eager to serve her country with the understanding she may see things she's never seen before.
A different perspective from ROTC instructor Danny Hunter.
Hunter served in Vietnam, Honduras, and Desert Storm. Hunter says he's not sure if Heather fully grasps what it means to be in combat but at the very least gives her an 'A' for courage for wanting to serve.
"Absolutely. She's done an outstanding job as commander in the ROTC program," said Hunter.
"I can see myself carrying a weapon and in gunfire and all that," said Lockman.
The Pentagon's change means more than 200,000 front-line positions will be opened to women. Heather Lockman is aiming for one of those jobs.
The military says right now women make up around 15% of active-duty personnel.
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