General Lori Robinson has been officially named as the next nominee to lead US Northern Command (NORTHCOM), setting her up to be the first woman to lead a combatant command in Pentagon history.
- The announcement, made by Secretary of Defense Ash Carter, was largely expected, with Defense News, among others, reporting in January that Robinson was the likely pick.
- She is currently commander for the Pacific Air Forces and enrolled in the A
ir Force in 1982. - If confirmed by the Senate, she would replace Adm. Bill Gortney, who held the position since December 2014.
- The US Northern Command oversees all of North America.
- In December of last year Mr Carter opened all combat roles in the US military to women. The move opened up about 220,000 positions to women.
- The military has already begun to recruit women for combat jobs, including as Navy SEALs, and new plans could see them serving in previously male-only Army and Marine Corps infantry units.
- The top Army and Marine Corps generals told senators in February that it will take up to three years to fully integrate women into all combat job.
