The Associated Press is reporting that Defense Secretary Ash Carter is expected to announce the decision on Thursday, which comes more than two years after the Pentagon initially said it would lift the ban. In the meantime, much was made of the fact that female Marine recruits were struggling with pull-up requirements, as they’re physically harder for women because of muscle mass and weight distribution. (The Army’s physical fitness test, by the way, only counts sit-ups, push-ups, and a 2-mile run.) The Marine Corps was also concerned integrating women would hurt unit cohesion.
According to the AP, the armed services have until January 1 to submit plans for the new rule, and must begin implementing them April 1.