Gates addresses troops on 'don't ask, don't tell' repeal

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Gates addresses troops on 'don't ask, don't tell' repeal

Posted 5/28/2010

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by Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

5/28/2010 - WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates told troops worldwide May 28 that any repeal of the so-called "don't ask don't tell" law will be delayed until the ongoing Defense Department high-level review is completed, and only after he, the president and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff all can certify that the department is ready to make the change without hurting unit cohesion, military readiness, military effectiveness and recruiting and retention.

Secretary Gates recorded a special message that will be broadcast on the American Forces Radio and Television Service and the Pentagon Channel to speak directly to servicemembers and their families about the moves toward repeal of the law that bars gay men and lesbians from serving openly in the military.

"There's been a lot of political posturing and maneuvering on this issue this week, and the secretary wanted to communicate directly to the troops about what this all means to them," Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell said. "He wanted to make it clear that the department's review of how to smartly implement a change in the law is more important than ever, and their participation in it is absolutely critical to its success."

The members of the House of Representatives passed an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Bill May 27 that would allow gay men and lesbians to serve openly. Members of the Senate Armed Services Committee passed a similar amendment last night.

President Barack Obama said he is pleased with the congressional actions. He has long favored repealing the law, in which has been in effect since 1994.

"Key to successful repeal will be the ongoing Defense Department review, and as such, I am grateful that the amendments ... will ensure that the Department of Defense can complete that comprehensive review that will allow our military and their families the opportunity to inform and shape the implementation process," he said in a written statement released by the White House May 27.

President Obama said being the commander in chief is his greatest honor.

"This legislation will help make our armed forces even stronger and more inclusive by allowing gay and lesbian soldiers to serve honestly and with integrity," he said.

Any change in the law will take time, Secretary Gates said in his recorded message.

"The legislative process is long and complex," he said. "While it appears likely that Congress will eventually change the 'don't ask, don't tell' law, we do not expect the legislation that would do this to be presented to the president for months - perhaps not until the end of the year."

The amendment is the result of a compromise worked out between the administration and Congress. It allows the military to revoke the "don't ask, don't tell" provisions 60 days after a military study group chaired by Jeh C. Johnson, the Defense Department's general counsel, and Army Gen. Carter F. Ham, commander of U.S. Army Europe, presents its report in December.

The legislation is a deferred repeal, Secretary Gates stressed.

"It would repeal 'don't ask, don't tell,' but only after -- I repeat, after -- the ongoing Department of Defense high-level review is completed, and only after the president, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and I all can certify that we are ready to make this change without hurting unit cohesion, military readiness, military effectiveness and recruiting and retention," Secretary Gates said.

As the legislative process continues, nothing will change in current policies and practices, the secretary said.

"Current law, policies and regulations remain in place, and we are obligated to abide by them as before," he said.

The vote in the House and at the Senate committee makes the results of the Defense Department study even more important, Secretary Gates said. The panel will conduct a thorough and fact-based assessment of the impact of the potential law change and will develop "an implementation plan that minimizes any possible disruption to the department's mission and on-going operations," he added.

Secretary Gates urged servicemembers to participate in the review.

"We need to hear from you, and your families, so that we can make these judgments in the most informed and effective manner," the secretary said. "So please let us know how to do this right."

He asked all servicemembers to stay informed on this issue, but to not let it distract them from the "critical mission to defend our country and our duty to uphold the values represented by the uniform you wear."

The message will play on AFRTS broadcast outlets overseas and on the Pentagon Channel in the United States.

Comments

9/6/2010 1:47:27 PM ET
The Don't Ask Don't Tell policy contradicts the integrity of the military regardless of the branch of service. As a soldier I care whether the man or woman next to me can get the mission done. Sexual orientation does not compromise a mission, soldiers attitudes do. On the other hand, a soldier living in fear because of biological impulses legislated by ill-advised policy makers does compromise the integrity of the military soldiers' attitudes and the mission. The Don't Ask Don't Tell policy encourages discrimination at best and at worst demands discrimination all the while making a mockery of integrity. Those who feel some sort of justification, be it religion morality or mere philosophy, to legislate biological and physiological make-up expressed through sexual orientation not only demonstrate ignorance but outright defiance of logic. The policy itself demonstrates a lack of leadership or an incoherent leadership at best. Repeal is the only option.

Kenneth Wills, Overseas

6/9/2010 2:34:53 AM ET
For those of you defending the repeal of DADT I have a couple questions. You say that being homosexual is not a choice and that its genetic. Well should we encourage alcoholics to be drunk all the time? I mean, why not? They are born with the inclination to drink. Why do you hate them so? What about polygamists? Should we allow them to marry as many people as they want? I mean, they are all in love. Why haven't you been up in arms for those raids on the polygamist ranches in recent news? We should not be discouraging people loving on another. How about the North American Man Boy Love Association? They believe that loving young boys is natural and they were born that way. Why aren't you defending their right to openly love young boys? Do you hate the constitution or something? How dare you discrimenate against these people. Alcoholics, polygamists and pedophiles, just like homosexuals, are predisposed to give into these desires. But just like the other groups it is thei

Travis, Texas

6/8/2010 3:46:24 PM ET
These people go through life and even military training just like the rest of us and they learn customs and courtesy just like the rest of us. They learn the respect and laws they are to obeyed by under the UCMJ... Just like the rest of us. this is the end of my comment.

SSgt, LAFB Texas

6/8/2010 1:16:17 PM ET
Lets not even go into the AF Core Values and all that argument, but how about the day a good friend is retiring or better yet KIA while fighting for your freedom You're watching the Honor Guard member salute and present the American flag and notice that they are not presenting it to the one and only person who was supportive and secretly loved this person with all their heart for years. Back home this person was raising their children and supporting their loved one to serve for American freedom while they were not even offered full freedom themselves. I wonder how hard it was for them to not be able to kiss their lover goodbye once come time to form up and get on that plane headed to Iraq. People are people. I will fight and sleep in the same room with a person because that's just the way it is. You homophobes posting your comments about homosexual being open are acting as if they are animals. These people go through life and even military training just like the rest of us and they (re

SSgt , LAFB Texas

6/8/2010 11:39:53 AM ET
First of all I would love for somebody to show me proof that being a homosexual is a Lifestyle Choice. That's just ridiculous to even use as an excuse as to why someone is different. That's like saying me not drinking milk is a lifestyle choice. I am lactose intolerant which does not allow of me to intake any milk without getting sick. I fully believe people are born homosexual just like people are born heterosexual. I am in the military and its no secret who is and isn't gay or straight around base. In reality everyone just turns their head and ignores it or in their own way treats that person with disrespect. People try saying that once don't don't tell is lifted that all these homosexual horn dogs are going to just lose all self control and start hitting on everyone in sight. Does this even happen while in civilian clothes during your off duty time? Seriously do you homophobes really think that way? Let's not even go into the AF Core Values and all that argument.

SSgt , LAFB Texas

6/7/2010 11:49:32 AM ET
All of the homosexuals keep commenting in these forums about how the DADT policy causes you to lie and how that it is against the AF Core Values. GET REAL! I have two things all of you homosexuals need to consider. 1. Heterosexuals and the UCMJ fully UNDERSTAND what is wrong with this LIFESTYLE and that is what we fear because it will serious effect unit cohesiveness and the mission. 2. Quit using the AF Core Values as your platform to state DADT causes all of you to lie. Read the policy. It says we will not ask about your lifestyle and you do not tell about your lifestyle. Get your head out of the rainbow. This is an issue of a LIFESTYLE choice not the color of ones skin or what gender they are. SSGT McCormick LAFB -you said it well and this is a major issue that I have brought up for a while but homosexuals think this point is considered being shallow or just call it bigotry thinking.

T. Street, down to earth

6/7/2010 9:56:34 AM ET
Sirs, my question isn't about whether this is right or wrong, but more about timing. I understand everything we do deals with votes and our politicians but I have to ask myself, is this really the right time to be worrying about don't ask don't tell when we are fighting a major war? Personally, I don't care who fights next to me but I do care about things being done for the wrong reasons at the wrong time. We have oil flowing into the gulf, our debt is 14 trillion, the economy has not recovered, and in the midst of all that we are fighting a war going on a decade. Is this honestly the most important issue on the table? I love the Air Force and our country but it makes me sick to think that votes are more important than worrying about the issues that are most effecting our great nation. The Y Generation is the most adaptable we have and it makes sense to repeal. What doesnt make sense is the rush to do it. This is the wrong time for the services to deal with this.

Ed, Germany

6/7/2010 8:23:14 AM ET
@Bryan in DC, I am sick of people promoting the lie that DADT is unconstitutional. Neither is serving in the military a right nor is a minority based on behavior a protected class. If serving in the military were a right then people with no arms need to be qualified to serve and if behavior dictates a protected class then the military drug laws should be struck down too. I sincerely wish that people like you who don't actually have a clue what is in the constituiton would read the thing before they comment on it. As for the repeal of DADT. I don't care what people do behind closed doors... but I think unit cohesion will suffer. I hear well all of Europe does it but who in the world fears Europe's armies? In less than a century, Europe's armies have been relegated to second class fighting organizations. It always gets compared to introducing blacks into the military but it is in no way similar. How would DADT apply to being black? Oh yeah, impossible.

Mike, BAFB

6/7/2010 5:11:13 AM ET
Homosexuals are proudly serving now across the Armed Forces. If memory serves me correctly there isn't a question asking individuals their sexual orientation. So to say that homosexuals are not allowed in the military is an inaccurate statement. The issue boils down to whether this lifestyle should be accepted and it should not. The UCMJ would have to be changed to reflect this lifestyle. Contrary to popular belief, our laws were derived from the Bible. Where else is there in the world a book that outlines what is right and what is wrong not according to man's standard of living. If some had their way, we would live in a wild wild west society where wrong is right and right is wrong.

Frie, RAB

6/5/2010 5:30:28 PM ET
Why are there female-only and male-only showers? Because males and females are attracted to each other. What would happen if a male walked into the female shower? Why should the same thing happen to a male homosexual walking into the male showers?

SSgt, utah

6/4/2010 2:36:16 PM ET
We all fear what we don't understand. Some take that as an opportunity to segregate and justify their ignorance towards a group of people while others see it as a way of expanding their horizons.INTEGRITY FIRST rememember that one How can I trust that my wingman is telling the truth when this policy BLATANTLY tells him or her that if you live this lifestyle keep it a secret and its okay

A1C V, MA

6/4/2010 2:14:42 PM ET
@J...You blame TV as propaganda yet you use anti-gay propaganda to illustrate your point. There isn't any scientific evidence that says being gay is a choice. I'm sure people's attitudes 20 years ago on this subject were different but that doesn't make it right. Just like 70 years ago people had different attitudes about a desegregated military or 100 years ago with women's suffrage or even a 150 years about slavery or the practice of not hiring catholics. No one is forcing you to belive that this homosexuality is right all it's doing is allowing gay and lesbians to serve like the rest of us. No one forces you to hide who you are don't make others hide who they are

John, Florida

6/4/2010 8:54:33 AM ET
We serve for freedom. Denial of someones sexual orientation does not change their sexual orientation. Being comfortable with someone's homosexuality will only come about with understanding and learning from one another just like with the rights of African Americans, Jews and woman. It is normal to be unaware and fearful of bathroom breaks and sleeping at night, but how would you really know? It seems like most of the posts are assumptions and trying to justify selfishness. How is it morally right to deny someone who they are and the not having equal rights of another?

vanessa Paiano, MA

6/3/2010 7:56:55 PM ET
Repealing DADT is wrong. Of course you might ask what is wrong anymore. The degradation of morality in our country has been undeniable. Moral relativism is choking our country and soon it appears our military. It is not only wrong morally but intellectually. Equating somebody's choice to be homosexual with the struggle to have equal rights for racial minorities and women is ridiculous. The push for normalizing homosexuality has been driven down our throats for the last couple of decades. If you would have asked people just 20 years ago what they thought about this issue do you think the opinions would have been close to the same? Every TV show now has the gay guy that is always the funniest person on the show and everywhere you turn there is basically propaganda being piped at us in all directions. The military will suffer from moral lowering monetary strains and mission degradation. This is all a political and social issue.

J, Scott AFB

6/3/2010 5:17:47 PM ET
I was raised mormon. I know plenty of mormons in the AF. They serve alongside Wiccans Atheists Catholics Jewish etc. They may still think that what each of those people practice is wrong morally religiously, however they have a right to practice whatever religion they want. How is sexual preference any different Straight men you have been in a bathroom using a urinal next to a gay man whether you know it or not. Straight women you have been in a locker room changing in front of a lesbian believe me. The only change the repeal would make is to allow these people to be true to themselves. To be comfortable in their own skin What would be the reaction if the Mormon said I can't work with that Wiccan they bring wicca books to work to read on their breaks and I find that morally wrong. They would find a solution and the solution would not be YOU CAN'T BE A WICCAN OPENLY.

frosty, EAFB AK

6/3/2010 4:20:34 PM ET
this law should be done away with. it's against the constitution. who cares about religion this has nothing to do with it. america was founded on religious freedom which leads to separation of church and state. religion has to be irrelevant to this conversation. personal values are also irrelevant as that once again leads to religion and subjective views. all that matters is that all men and women are treated equal. this is what america has always been about, don't tread on me

bryan, DC

6/3/2010 2:51:33 PM ET
Let them serve. The only people that are opposed to this are the ones that are scared of change. Let them openly show love for their partners and stand beside us on the battle field. What you do in your house is your prerogative. Its ok to be gay as long as you can still be a soldier.

Paul, BAFB

6/3/2010 12:35:27 PM ET
You know it's one thing to be born a woman or African American or any other race etc... But being homosexual is a choice that many struggle with but it still boils down to a choice. So to compare to this women being let in or desegragation is ridiculous. Why should the many suffer for the choice of a few? The answer is, they shouldn't. Now think about that and in reference to the problems that will arise with housing, insurance, TDY, room arrangements, benefits for partners, etc. If you think the defense budget is going crazy now just wait. And if we have to kick out good Airmen, Soldiers, Marines or Sailors so we can accomodate the homosexual group, that will be utterly stupid.

Dane, Colorado

6/3/2010 12:31:09 PM ET
Lets look at this from a different point of view. From now on heterosexuals cannot discuss anything that would reveal them as being heterosexual. Pretty harsh and unfair isn't it? All men are created equal, not just heterosexuals.

Tech, CA

6/3/2010 11:44:25 AM ET
I think overall most people in the military would be able to deal with this if they had to. Defending our lives and the lives of our children is obviously a higher priority than abiding a law we don't agree with. However for those who find the homosexual lifestyle to be morally wrong it is distressing that their leaders in whom they have placed a great amount of trust are now asking them to compromise their own integrity and dignity for the sake of a lifestyle that is contradictory to our families and our way of life. And then to do it in the name of dignity and integrity for those who live that lifestyle is a hard thing to swallow. I'm sure some don't see this as a valid issue but for some who value morality and its place in our society this is at their core.

james, new jersey

6/2/2010 6:26:01 PM ET
Ive served 8 years now and this debate seems like its only being dragged out. Dont Ask Dont Tell denies homosexuals the privilege to serve their country U.S. Constitution Article IV Section 2. The States should have never allowed this law to go through due to the fact that it denies citizens equal protection under the 14th Amendment. Air Force should have been first to speak out against it. DADT to me is a failure of leadership. I took an oath to protect the Constitution and this law is a contradiction to it. The military already has a system in place and the only thing they need to do is change the language to where it doesn't discriminate. If a person has liberty to serve in the U.S. they should be allowed. How do we train Afghani tribes to work together when we can't even do it

Hector, California

6/2/2010 4:52:50 PM ET
There's a self-fulfilling prophecy out there that says a repeal will destroy morale. The truth though is that these abstract concepts of morale and change and tolerance don't mean anything. It's all about us. If you're fragile enough that a repeal will knock you out of the service that's not a problem with the policy -- it's a problem with you and you're the only problem. I don't know a friendlier way to say that .

tr, ok

6/2/2010 1:19:59 PM ET
I think a greater concern would be if gays will be REQUIRED to serve openly or could they still hide it If we are to set up separate showers living quarters etc. who is to say that someone who is gay would intentionally not admit to it That will have all types of people nervous and the witch hunts would begin.

Brian, Fl

6/2/2010 11:32:05 AM ET
Life is a series of choices. I have always felt this is a lifestyle choice. This is just another thing that will give legitimacy to lifestyle choices being considered a minority group and allowing them special rights and additional benefits from being associated with that lifestyle choice. If we identify them as a minority group and now allow them to openly serve they will have more ammunition to try to bring about legislation to include them in minority consideration when applying for jobs and any other thing that has a preference based on being a minority.

A, NJ

6/2/2010 11:23:07 AM ET
Personally I am not for the repeal...BUT what impact will this really have on our service We already have gays and lesbians in our ranks today and for the most part we all have a fairly good idea of who they are. The problems I foresee involve EO complaints as these individuals will become a protected demographic group. There will also most likely be increased gay awareness training so we all can better understand this lifestyle and be sensitive to them. Boy I can't wait for those classes Now there is another concern. If a gay or lesbian couple get married in a state that allows such unions will the military be forced to recognize this and provide this couple with the benefits afforded all married couples Benefits include base housing medical spousal job preference and command sponsorship.

Air Force Tom, Mtn Home AFB ID

6/2/2010 11:03:06 AM ET
It baffles me to hear people talk about how if gays are let in the military. Do you really think they're not already here Cause then well have to shower and live together you think your'e not already Just cause you don't know he or she is gay doesn't mean they don't know their gay. And just like you're sending that side-long look at a cute guy girl they may do the same thing. But just as you don't act on it inappropriately for fear of sexual harassment charges neither will they. Just because someone is homosexual doesn't mean they're attracted to EVERY same sex person that walks by. How many briefings have we been to regarding sexual harassment or unprofessional relationships in the workplace? How will allowing homosexuals to serve openly change this? We're already fighting to maintain a professional work environment rather than an office that sounds like a locker room. Sexual harassment rules still apply.

Heather AF, Southwest Asia

6/2/2010 10:16:47 AM ET
I am just going to state something that I experianced concerning this, When I was TDY at Base X we served with military members from other countries. While taking a shower in one of the big tents that was set up there were three Austrailian militry men that were obviously gay standing in the middle of the shower naked and talking. As I was showering and there were no curtains or deviders they stood there looking me up and down making comments. Did it make me feel uncomfortable? Of course it did. I left as quickly as I could.So can it have an affect Of course it can. Can that sort of thing happen I experienced it.

Frank, New england

6/2/2010 9:26:07 AM ET
My question to those who support this is this - Are heterosexuals the only people capable of sexual assault or harassment I do not want to be in close quarters sleeping or showering with someone who is sexually attracted to my gender. I would not want females in the same room and I would not want a gay man in the same room. Don't give me that homophobe or gays don't want to rape you garbage either. Remember the question I started with. Why don't we put men and woman in the same close quarter areas Because they are sexually attracted to each other and it will erode good order and discipline. So basically if you want to repeal go ahead. But be willing to quadruple the defense budget to house everyone separately. Also I know there are gays currently serving. But there are also rules and discipline that deter someone from acting on their choice of sexual expression.

Travis, Texas

6/1/2010 7:15:24 PM ET
A defered repeal huh...basically it doesn't matter what those in uniform think about this change...what matters is that we accept it apparently. What a joke. It's sad to see this compared to ethnicity, color, gender...it's not the same. When I deploy I don't have to worry about the dude's sexual orientation but now I will when we have to share a tent or room. There's no need to have male female separation anymore. Very sad time for the military...

jeremy, US

6/1/2010 5:49:06 PM ET
Every man is created equal not just the heterosexuals AKA straights. If a man is willing to die for freedom then let him live free. No one is judging you how to live your life. Don't judge others.

Mr.K, CA

6/1/2010 5:42:40 PM ET
If someone is willing to die for freedom let them live free. A homosexual is not going to go on a rampage and try to fondle every person in his or her same gender. It's called self-control. A man and a woman can work together everyday on a daily basis and have self-control so can two men or two woman. Every man should be created equal.

Mr.K, CA

6/1/2010 4:22:44 PM ET
Jeff hit the nail on the head. Sexual harassment is sexual harassment gay or straight and the regulations are already in place. The fact of the matter is I don't need to know if you're gay any more than I need to know if you're straight. I just don't think I should have to end someone's career if I find out they're gay.

D.E., Bluesville

6/1/2010 3:53:56 PM ET
DADT is institutionalized discrimination--pure and simple with no value added. There is no added benefit to order discipline or morale. GLBT people are already serving honorably--end of story. Straight people have the weddings at the on base chapel receptions at the Club birth their kids at the on-base medical center drop their kids off at the CDCs and Youth Centers. All the while gay people can lose their jobs by just stating I'm gay. The military is sworn to protect and defend the US Constitution. How can an organization protect something when they don't embody those same values of freedom and respect DADT is a disgrace to the Constitution and to every American.

Soubriquet, Wright-Patterson AFB OH

6/1/2010 2:44:26 PM ET
Secretary Gates says he wants to make this change without hurting unit cohesion military readiness military effectiveness and recruiting and retention. I have read through all of the posts to this blog and I think it's safe to say that there is already a lack of Unit Cohesion based upon the disagreements. What do people think will happen if the repeal goes through Also we as a Country are falling further away from the vision our Founding Fathers had for this Country. The more we fall away from the base principles that they implimented the more in danger we become of falling. I know that I for one have not forgotten we are One Nation Under God and being part of his blessed land we need to abide by his laws.

Ben, Missouri

6/1/2010 2:35:47 PM ET
How about a completly Co-Ed military....one set of showers, one set of dorms nothing separated. Females with males etc.. Now how will the females feel about that Boundaries are there for a reason - Good order and discipline. If we do what new medical benefits will have to be given what if the homosexual lesbian wants a gender reassignment will that drive up health care costs once you open the door......to me this is way different than letting women or minorities in the service....completly different world.

JP, barksdale

6/1/2010 1:16:07 PM ET
From personal experience as a hetrosexual who watched Clinton's Don't Ask Don't Tell policy come into being ... I don't believe it is the mature self-respecting hetro- or homo-sexual people one needs to worry about. Rather it is the activist who feel they must make a point. For example--public displays of affection or PDA are frowned upon in uniform unless a couple just returned from a long deployment. But at the beginning of the Clinton policy there were cases of homosexual or bisexual activist who brought full-contact PDA to the forefront to make a statement. Hello--if hetrosexual couples cannot do it ... what makes it ok for homosexual or bi-sexual couples to act out in that fashion simply to make a statement

Alicia Harris, Robins AFB

6/1/2010 1:13:55 PM ET
It pains me to think that I joined an organzation which contains people who promote discrimination and bigotry. I am quite sure that we all took an oath to uphold the Constitution of the United States. And I heard somewhere else that we are all created equal. WHile I respect other people's religious and moral values I have a problem when these affect the two things mentioned above. As I readinterpret the Equal Protection Clause contained within the Fourteenth Amendment it suggests to me that the DADT policy is unconstitutional. This is the same reason we found not letting women and black people as well as other minorities not serve to be wrong. The argument that we should forgo this logic because of unit cohesion and unit morale is totally baseless. I am quitre sure that the racist and gender discriminatory people were upset and were affected negatively by the introduction of blacks and women into the service.

RJM, Alabama

6/1/2010 10:39:16 AM ET
Generally I believe that most Americans have understood this is a human rights issue and because we have become conditioned to respect the rights of others as our own many of us do not flinch at this. I think it is a long time coming but I see in the responses to this box that those active with their responses are the ones obsessed with keeping our friends and loved ones oppressed and in the closet. They may be loud but by no means are they the majority. As a service member it is disheartening to hear other fellow Americans criticize judge and punish others for something that cannot be controlled. I wonder if they could fathom the pain our fellow service members feel when they cannot have a picture of a loved one in their desk cannot share the joys and pains the way we do with our coworkers or if they felt their livelihood was in constant jeopardy. It is not that complicated, it is basic empathy. People attracted to their same gender are no more violent or salacious than someone het

YC, MA

6/1/2010 9:43:54 AM ET
Mr. Gates is now Nero and playing his fiddle like Charlie Daniels with his head in the sand. He should take responsibility for this issue and maintain the status quo and not resort to popularism and independent studies there is too much at stake. ANYONE in any official capacity responsible for national security who believes this policy change will not affect retention and discipline is an unmitigated fool worthy of punishment under the UCMJ for dereliction of duty for which there is no statute of limitations.Bottom Line The military is absolutely no place for poplularism, it is strictly a place for warfighting and the necessary proven disciplinary structure to ensure effectiveness.Let the government continue to allow those of who have personal preferences unsuitable for uniformed military service to serve their country in more compatable professions.

Rich , Wisconsin

6/1/2010 9:27:13 AM ET
I believe that any decision on the policy at this point before the DoD review is complete is premature and without full discussion of all the facts. If any repeal or amendment of DADT contains language which extends military family member benefits to so called homosexual life partners, or spouses in those states that recognize homosexual marriage or civil union, I remain vehemently against it. I believe extending those benefits would be just enough of a precedent for the gay rights movement to argue that the federal government recognizes the validity of homosexual marriage and could be the nudge on the slippery slope that pushes the remainder of the country to be forced to recognize and allow homosexual marriage against the will of the people.

Crusty Retiree, Texas

6/1/2010 5:21:18 AM ET
Hmm. The military as the profession of arms is not the locker room. If a person is straight, gay, or otherwise, the military environment is no place for that type of discussion. Obviously, dismissing someone based on sexuality is absurd seeing that it has no bearing on job performance. However, it is equally absurd creating and promoting a working environment where individuals can freely discuss what they do in their bedrooms with whomever when it is no one's business and should remain that way, again, straight, gay or otherwise. Likewise discussion of an individual's sexual preference, true or false, constitutes a form of sexual harassment and should be treated as such. No offense, but this isn't rocket science.

Jeff, AF

6/1/2010 1:26:13 AM ET
Serving openly doesn't mean in your face. In fact, it would mean quite the opposite. Talk of sex and attraction at work is unprofessional and inappropriate regardless gender or sexual preference. Really what this means is that gays and lesbians will be treated fairly. As for the religious angle, is that even relevant? Would you refuse to serve along side a pagan for the same reason? I assure you there are pagans, devil-worshippers, and muslims amongst you. You just don't know it. There are also gays and lesbians. They're just forced to hide who they are, being denied the same basic rights granted to every military member, such as married housing, separation pay, and other benefits for spouses. I realize not every state authorizes gay marriage but for those that do it would mean instant separation from the military should a couple choose to dedicate their lives to each other. This repeal isn't going to let gays join. It will simply allow them the same rights afforded to every othe

Sam, Japan

5/31/2010 10:19:33 PM ET
Regardless of which side you fall on the decision is going to be made out of political pressure -- a commander in chief who has an agenda to satisfy what he campaigned on while preserving political clout and a Defense study that likely will not be given the time to completely study the impact before November elections take away the president's leverage. If it's railroaded like health care expect a repeal.

D. Patrick, Indy

5/31/2010 9:52:12 PM ET
I can't believe we're still having a debate over discrimination. After all the effort that led to women being allowed to serve and minorities being allowed to serve and finaly to integrate the services there are still people out there who advocate discrimination. I just can't believe it. When are we going to live up to our creed that all men and women are created equal Personally I serve my country because it stands for freedom and equality because everyone regardless of gender color religion or even sexual orentation is the same under the law and are entitled to the same opportunities. I know this will be a difficult transition but it is the right thing to do. And I for one will proudly serve in a foxhole aboard a ship or in a aircraft with anyone who wants to defend freedom and liberty man or woman black or white gay or straight.

Nick, California

5/31/2010 9:35:51 PM ET
If gays can openly serve how will the UCMJ address the issues of sexual practices Will it be an acceptable standard for two singles of the same sex to have sex with one another If we lower our standards to these levels our once great military will crumble and we will not be the super power we once were.

James Cocciolone, Misawa Japan

5/31/2010 9:30:52 PM ET
There are gays in the military. We all know one. It's not uncommon. There were gays in basic training but who really cared Everyone was too worried about the next time they were going to get screamed at then to check each other out. As far as morale if you are comfortable with your sexuality it won't bother you but at least the gay men and women could actually be themselves. Besides they are repealing the Don't ask Don't tell. They aren't repealing sodomy and rape laws from the USMJ. So it still restricts gay military members and if you do get raped there are still consequences for the perpetrator. Just let people live the way they are.

J., US

5/31/2010 1:42:35 PM ET
What a disgrace besides from a moral and religious standpoint which I beleive is wrong I don't think it will work well within the military system. I do not hate or even dislike gays at alljust that it is sick immoral unprofessional and will detract from mission focus. Not to mention all of the extra problems fraternatization etc that will stem from it. Totally a wrong answer This will not be good

Nick, Nevada

5/31/2010 10:27:22 AM ET
I am a retired colonel. I am in favor of repealing DADT. This weird idea that every gay person is out to grope you or come on to you is simply immature. Trust me guys, gays do not want to come on to you any more than the females in your units want to come on to you. The exact same arguments about unit cohesion were used when President Truman ended racial separation of the military.

Jim H, Omaha NE

5/31/2010 6:42:52 AM ET
Well the way I see it is this they are already here. Some I know personally. They have told me and I grew up in Tennessee. This is 2010 not the old days. Most people growing up in this generation do not see this as a problem. The young airmen don't really have any issues with this. We are all adults and I really just wish people would act like that. If we aren't affected by this now and we all know that they are serving already then I really see no issue with not being discriminating towards one group of people. This coming from a very happily married straight man who currently has a homosexual brother serving right along side him during this time of war for his country. That is what this is about. We all come from the land of the FREE and home of the BRAVE. If they are willing to put their lives on the line they should be able to be true to who they are. Plain and simple

Bill, California

5/31/2010 4:13:09 AM ET
What a disgrace. I am a female serving in the military and it disgusts me that soon I may have to share a room on a TDY or deployment with a lesbian or have a lesbian accompany me during a random urinalysis. Keep the gays where they belong and especially not in the military

JT, Alabama

5/31/2010 1:16:01 AM ET
Don't Ask Don't Tell was the way to go. Now homosexuality will be a protected behavior the military will be put in the place of advocating for these folks. Morale will be busted mine is. No more hugs at award ceremonies promotions etc from your wife because homosexuals would want to do it too and freak out the kids. So leadership will say now one can. The military will be no more family friendly that a San Fransisco parade. I would not have joined as a young man if homosexuals were serving openly. A Christian could serve with no moral disagreements in the military morals code but no more. Instead of tolerating we will have MEO ensuring we embrase the diversity give me a break.

David , Afghanistan

5/31/2010 1:02:26 AM ET
I served honorably and with distinction in the Navy for four years. During that time I met several gays and lesbians also in service. It didn't bother me then nor does it now. Changing this policy will not suddenly mean that you're going to be hit on or harassed or even assaulted. If that happens then any inappropriate behavior will be dealt with through the appropriate channels just the same way that any inappropriate behavior is dealt with now. What it comes down to is quite simple If you're given an order you follow it. If you disobey the order you are punished accordingly. It doesn't matter if you're gay or straight. You misbehave you suffer the consequences.As for those who claim they will suddenly be too uncomfortable to serve why do it now Gays and lesbians are there now and are allowed to be so under current policy provided they do not tell. Why would knowing it make you more uncomfortable particularly if the person doesn't behave any differently

EB, LA

5/30/2010 11:42:04 PM ET
This just goes to show how misguided the current administration actaully is. There are far more important issues facing the military than this. Taking care of all veterens morale, ops tempo just to name a few. I am glad I am retired and do not to serve under this administration. What next? "Out and proud" decal kits on all the aircraft. Come on, leaders, nip this in the bud. This issue needs to stay how it is.

Mike, U.P WA.

5/30/2010 4:39:15 PM ET
I spent 26 years in the Air Force and probably would not have if I had to serve with known gays. Now what will we have to do: have four instead of two living quarters, shower rooms and bathrooms everwhere. Surely straight people will not have to use private facility with gays? Talk about the military going to the dogs. Oh wel,l everything else in the good old USA is going in that direction.

Don Drosky, South Carolina

5/30/2010 1:52:01 PM ET
Honestly, if you are comfortable in your own sexuality it shouldn't matter who is attracted to you, and military standards of what is appropriate in a workplace or deployed location will surely still apply. As for the Bible argument, unless you follow every little thing in the Bible, your argument doesn't hold up because you are simply choosing what you want to believe and holding people to that standard. Work on feeling good about your own life rather than judging others lives and you will be a happier, more Christian person.

Phil, US

5/30/2010 2:12:58 AM ET
This is unbelievable. The law needs to stay the way it is. Changing it will only cause more problems. Next thing you know we will be hearing complaints from the gays about how they aren't treated fairly or that they didn't get a promtion or recognition because they are gay. Last I checked, we were still at war. Is this homo issue really what's important right now?

Van, Washington

5/29/2010 9:28:36 PM ET
The fact they are going ahead with this change shows the politicians care more about DADT than our wounded and injured veterans. Thank you for showing us our faith in them is misguided. The majority of Americans in the military, and not, don't support repealing, but the politicians care more about themselves.

Dane, Colorado

5/29/2010 12:18:17 PM ET
I spent a total of 8 years in the Navy, counting reserve time. I would have been very uncomfortable if there had been openly gay people on my ship. We all know that if this is allowed, the history of the gay movement has been In your faceI Pray this won't happen.

Bob P, Montana

5/29/2010 11:54:17 AM ET
Dont Ask Dont Tell What a mistake giving gays this right. Gay males have one thing in common with straight males and that is they are endowed with male aggression. The straight male would find thousands of sex partners if he could but the female acts as a counter balance and keeps the rate down. Aggressive gay males encounter other gay males and there is no stopping the sex which is why patient zero is considered the father of the AIDS plague. MRSA is proof that AIDS didn't teach the gay men a lesson. If gay men were not aggressive then AIDS might have not made it globally it's all about the growth rate and how gay male promiscuity accelerated the disease to the mainstream. Giving into gay activism is like enabling alcoholics

vanhellslinger, daytona

5/29/2010 7:54:00 AM ET
Secretary Gates says he needs to hear from me. My position in the matter of letting gays and lesbians serve in our military has and always will be no. It is against my moral and religious beliefs. That belief being that men should not lay down with men and women with women. It is a perversion of one's behavior. And for those who would question my religious beliefs, I would say that's your prerogative. But I'm entitled to my religious beliefs and I say this behavior is wrong. Next, Tricare will be paying for sex changes. Where does the perversion end?

Daniel, Florida

5/29/2010 12:33:04 AM ET
I served 20 years in the Air Force. Undoubtedly there were homosexuals but they did not flaunt it. Men sexually attracted to other men or women sexually attracted to other women would cause huge distractions from their military duties by both the atracted and the atractee.

ALVIN ZIEGELBAUER, TEXAS

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