The editorial page cartoon in a recent issue of USA Today speaks volumes about the perils and caprices of modern warfare, particularly the American involvement in Iraq.

One helmeted soldier is saying to another: “Congress wants women off the front lines.” Responds his comrade: “Where are the front lines?”

In most past conflicts, there have been “fronts” and more protected areas “to the rear.” In many instances, fewer than 10 percent of the men and women in the armed forces might have seen actual combat. The others in the ranks provided support in various ways.

That all has changed with the terrorist operations in areas such as Iraq and Afghanistan. There is almost 100 percent involvement now. “The front” can turn out to be the devastated offices of headquarters, living areas for various troops, police stations, training sites or the main street of what seems to be a secure city. Anyone who might be in a given area can become a target in a hurry because of “insurgent” activity where life – theirs or ours – is considered the least valuable commodity. Terrorists willing to commit suicide to achieve some alleged goal know no boundaries and the casualty rates for both men and women show that.

Traditionalists contend that despite all the changes in recent decades, the American public is not prepared for women in combat. Yet some 35 women have died in action and many others have been injured in the Middle East while serving in many capacities, such as vehicle repair and operation, transportation and medical service. They can be given key roles and have responded well to their assignments. As war is now conducted, there is no hiding place from “the front.” Congress in deciding this issue needs to consider that carefully.

Women willing to train and perform their duties in the armed services have the right to take part in whatever operations are needed. They accept these challenges and want to be allowed to carry them out.

Old-style tactics such as trench warfare and head-on charges have been knocked out of most military lexicons and skill, experience, intelligence and flexibility have become the new watchwords.

As the cartoon soldier asks: “Where are the front lines?” Those who willingly train and prepare to operate in such a theater, male or female, deserve every chance to do their job.