What policy change occurred in 1973 regarding women’s service?

• A. Legislation ends Combat exclusion and Reserve service for women
• B. Women admitted to Officer Candidate School
• C. The first SPAR to be sworn into the regular Coast Guard
• D. All officer career fields and enlisted ratings open to women

Answer: (A)

In 1973, the policy shift that ended the combat exclusion and opened Reserve service for women changed how and where women could serve. Previously, women were kept out of combat-related assignments and had limited roles in the Reserve. Removing those restrictions meant women could be considered for a broader range of duties and could participate in Reserve forces as well, expanding career opportunities and integration across the services. Other milestones, like women entering Officer Candidate School or later opening all officer and enlisted fields to women, happened at different times, but the 1973 change directly addressed combat eligibility and Reserve participation.