Secretary Gates outlines 'Don't Ask' repeal process

News > Secretary Gates outlines 'Don't Ask' repeal process

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Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates makes a point during a Jan. 6, 2011, Pentagon news conference with Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. (DOD photo/Air Force Master Sgt. Jerry Morrison)
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Secretary Gates outlines 'Don't Ask' repeal process

Posted 1/7/2011

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by Cheryl Pellerin
American Forces Press Service

1/7/2011 - WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates Jan. 6 described the Pentagon's three-step process for preparing to allow gays to serve openly in the military services.

At a Pentagon news conference with Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Secretary Gates updated reporters on the department's plan for implementing repeal of the so-called "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law, which has been in effect since 1993 and remains in effect until the process is complete.

"Our goal here is to move as quickly, but as responsibly, as possible," Secretary Gates said. "I see this as a three-step process. The first is to finalize changes in regulations (and) policies (and) get clearer definition on benefits."

The second phase is to prepare training materials for use by personnel specialists, chaplains, commanders and other leaders, and those who are in daily contact with service members, he said.

The third phase, the secretary explained, is the actual training for service members.

"We're trying to get the first two phases of that process done as quickly as possible," he said. "My hope is that it can be done within a matter of a very few weeks, so that we can then move on to what is the real challenge, which is providing training to 2.2 million people."

The House of Representatives passed legislation in May that called for the president, defense secretary and Joint Chiefs chairman to certify the implementation plan before the repeal takes effect.

On Nov. 30, 2010, Pentagon officials released the report of a working group that reviewed issues associated with a potential repeal. On Dec. 18, the Senate voted 65-31 for repeal, and President Barack Obama signed the legislation into law Dec. 22.

Secretary Gates said Clifford L. Stanley, the undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness, is leading the effort.

"I have asked Undersecretary Stanley to accelerate the first two phases of this process as much as he possibly can so that we can get on with the training process," the secretary said.

Admiral Mullen said the legislation specifies that the repeal will take effect only after he, Secretary Gates and President Obama certify that new policies and implementing regulations are consistent with standards of military readiness, effectiveness, unit cohesion and retention.

"From my perspective," the chairman said, now is not the time to 'come out,' if you will," noting that even after the required certification takes place, the present law will remain in effect for 60 more days. "We'll get through this. We'll do it deliberately. We certainly are focused on this, and we won't dawdle."

Comments

2/5/2011 2:10:30 PM ET
We all have our own opinions. Who are we to say that gays cant serve because of what reason? We have Airman that commit adultery, are alcohlics, drug addicts get DUI's...and the list goes on...but because a homosexual wants to proudly serve we discriminate based upon their sexuality...We all need to wise up and get our head out of our asses just because we dont believe in doesnt mean that our country should suffer due to our own beliefs...I say if you want to proudly serve then serve whether you are gay straight black or white...thank you and have a nice air force day.....

lesbianairman, Eglin AFB

1/19/2011 2:47:09 PM ET
Sexuality in general is fluid. If you're a hetero you cant control who you fall in love with same goes for homo. People arent homosexual one day then straight the next I like to call those people posers. You see my generation in particular has been desensitized to a lot of things and also is a fierce victim of fads. I remember when it was once popular for everyone to try and be a gangster or a rocker. Not implying that homosexuality is a fad for everyone but I would be naive to believe that some of these kids nowadays arent just going with the fad. As someone who has grown up in the church from catholic school and my Christian transition it is very easy for me to say that no one chooses who to love Everyone has had a homosexual thought at least once in their life regardless of their willingness to admit it. Why would veterans lose benefits to pay for this change They wouldnt Veterans were losing benefits regardless because of the national debt just like unemployment b

A1C Jimenez, Minot

1/14/2011 1:57:06 PM ET
@LEF. If, as you say, homosexuality is not a choice, how do you explain those who were homosexuals or lesbians and aren't any longer? What about bi-sexuality? How do you explain that?

Retired, Arizona

1/14/2011 1:28:22 PM ET
Bravo LEF, You are spot on. The logic that homosexuality is a choice would mean that heterosexuals making that choice have admitted homosexual desires and feelings but choose to have heterosexual intercourse and relations instead. So all of you people claiming that homosexuality is a choice, LEF and I are on to you. lol

TSI, SP

1/14/2011 1:31:50 AM ET
Well, there isn't really a point to arguing this now. The time has passed. However I do feel sorry for the retirees who will be having benefits slashed to pay for this fiasco.

Steve, Japan

1/13/2011 2:33:29 AM ET
Homosexuality is not a choice. I didn't wake up one day and decide Hey I think I wanna be attracted to women and men instead of just men. You're attracted to who you're attracted to - there's no controlling it. And to the people who brought up religion, no you cannot have your cross showing when you're in uniform just as you can't have any pendant showing when you're in uniform. You're not expected to hide the fact that you're a Christian or Jewish or Muslim and if someone finds out you are, you don't get kicked out for it. Under DADT gays lesbians and bisexuals were kicked out. That's what made it wrong and not a compromise.

LEF, USAFE

1/12/2011 2:28:49 PM ET
@Spouse Separating people by their gender and orientation does not necessarily maintain good order and discipline. Two straight same-sex roommates are just as capable of having discipline issues as any other combination. By that logic we should just separate everyone anyway. But that's not necessary because we don't enforce discipline by punishing people who haven't done anything wrong we do it by setting the standards and punishing the individuals who fail to meet them. Maybe we need to review the rules on forbidding spouses to room together on deployments maybe not. But for now I think we should expect people to meet the standards of professionalism and punish those that don't rather than simply expecting everyone to not meet the standards.

Capt S, Missouri

1/12/2011 1:01:38 PM ET
3. How can you be so against us giving the people of our own country freedom and the ability to exercise their rights as human beings? For hundreds of years we've invaded other countries trying to give them the opportunity for the same rights, and yet you have nothing negative to say about that 4. For those of you complaining about homosexuality being a choice I'm just wondering what sins do you chose to commit every day? Now I am a straight woman and currently don't have any homosexual friends in my life at this point in time. I used to have a lot in high school and college but I do know the difference between right and wrong. I also know that regardless of my own personal feelings or beliefs everyone needs to be treated equally and there is nothing I can or will do about it My advice is this if you don't like the direction the military and this country is moving in ... then move out because its a new generation and this country is moving into a new time.

A1C Jimenez, Minot

1/12/2011 12:51:09 PM ET
2. Is a straight person attracted to every person of the opposite sex that you run into? It is the same way with homosexuals. Yes, they are going to be attracted to someone but that doesn't mean they will be checking out everyone.

A1C Jimenez, Minot

1/12/2011 12:48:10 PM ET
For starters let me advise everyone in this country not everyone believes in the same things you do. We came to this country for freedom of religion and beliefs. Yes this country was founded on the backs of Christians but for the freedom of ALL people and you will do well to remember that. If you believe something is immoral than you have the right to. But I believe plaid and low quarters are the devil does that mean no one can wear them around me The US military was not made up to comfort your beliefs.

A1C Jimenez, Minot

1/12/2011 12:36:40 PM ET
@Capt S Missouri So who's going to pay for separate lodging in deployed situations? In a world where everyone could be assumed to be straight same-sex roomates were no problem. Discipline was maintained by creating rules that prevented opposite sex individuals from being in the same room...ever. Even married couples deployed to the same location at the same time were never allowed to be in the same dorm room. So how do we maintain good order when two same-sex roommates happen to be both be gay? And @Braunwyne Frazier Just because things are tolerated and accepted nowadays it doesn't mean they're RIGHT. It means we as a society have let morals and standards degrade to a point where anything goes.

A Spouse, Virginia

1/12/2011 11:09:28 AM ET
@Retired Why are you assuming that folks can openly act upon same sex desires in a deployed location The same rules will apply only now they will be sexual orientation-neutral. Meaning that a person cannot be removed from service simply for being gay. However inappropriate conduct or relationships will be met with the same disciplinary actions regardless of the genders of the parties involved. So the repeal is not going to allow gay servicemembers to have relations with others indiscriminately. That's not what open service means. Open service means that if anyone finds out you're gay you won't lose your job. The same standards of conduct will apply to gay servicemembers.

Capt S, Missouri

1/12/2011 10:41:18 AM ET
Greatest commander is debateable and any reference to his orientation shows an ignorance of cultural beliefs. Many cultures rightfully believe that we're all sexual creatures and how we satisfy those desires is a choice. I know homosexuality is a choice because the laws of natural selection would've eliminated that gene centuries ago. My question goes deeper. Last time I deployed there were rules that governed interaction between males and females. The rules were to ensure good order and discipline and to prevent heart ache back home. How will those situations be addressed now that folks can openly act upon same sex desires

Retired, Virginia

1/12/2011 8:57:01 AM ET
Anyone ever heard of Alexander the Great I heard he did pretty well...oh wait that's right he was THE most successful commander of all time...who just happened to be a homosexual.

TSP, SP

1/12/2011 1:28:55 AM ET
@RA SA The point I was trying to make is there was a time when being a female wanting to serve in a combat unit or even being black and wanting to serve period was taboo and frowned upon. The services adapted and moved onward enough said.As for your beliefs that homosexuality is morally wrong. I can only assume that you're basing your opinion from the words of the Bible. Well here's a news flash for ya there are alot of things in the Bible that were originally immorale and are openly tolerated and even accepted nowadays. Unwed mothers interracial marriages adultry divorce gambling drinking alcohol in excess. The list could go on and on.Times and society haved changed. I hope you realize that one day.

Braunwyne Frazier, Edwards AFB CA

1/11/2011 11:06:41 PM ET
@SSgt ELMOThe reason for people being worried that gaylesbians are checking them out is also the reason behind having a seperate male and female lockerbathroom. Females and males are afforded seperate bathrooms so what about homosexuals and heterosexuals

Male TSgt, ELMO

1/11/2011 3:34:32 PM ET
I had the opportunity to have a normal job for a few years before joining the military. I once had a major phobia about gays. After actually working with a couple for a few years I learned a couple of things and lost my phobia. I think most people are afraid that gays will try to 'convert' them. You are either gay or you're not. If you're not then quit worrying about. If a gay lesbian hits on you you just tell them you aren't interested. Simple as that. A gay lesbian wants to be with a gay lesbian. If you are not gay lesbain then they know that you are not interested. Here's a thought. How about judging people based on character and work ethics? When the bullets start flying I'm worried more about trying to protect myself and my fellow Airmen so we can all make it home. I could care less if they are gay or not at that moment. We all volunteerly signed the dotted line and no one should forget that.

SSgt, USA

1/11/2011 2:44:25 PM ET
Might I suggest taking a look at a Commentary currently on the Air Force site called Brewed with passion' brings satisfaction success by CMSgt Atticus Smith. While CMSgt Smith does not speak directly to the repeal of Don't Ask... some of his statements are pertinent to the current and constant state of flux of the military and government.

KR, Sheppard AFB

1/11/2011 2:44:20 PM ET
Those making the argument by comparing this to integration of blacks and women into the military are comparing apples to oranges. Being black or any other race is not morally wrong. Being a woman is not morally wrong. Being homosexual is a choice and a lifestyle that should not be put on the same level as race or gender. And essentially forcing those who see homosexuality as morally wrong to just get over it is wrong in of itself. All the training in the world is not going to get us over it.

RA, SA

1/11/2011 2:25:02 PM ET
@Backbone According to www.dictionary.com a homophobe is a person who hates homosexuals and homosexuality. I even went so far as to look up the word phobia. Its definition is a strong fear dislike or aversion. Sounds to me like qualify.

KR, Sheppard AFB

1/11/2011 1:53:57 PM ET
I want to know how we go about prosecuting Admiral Mullen for dereliction of duty. During the hearing in front of the Senate Armed Services Committee he specifically stated that he has knowingly served alongside homosexuals his entire career and saw no problem with it. Well sir with all due respect it was your DUTY as a comissioned officer in the US Armed Forces to report these individuals and have them relieved of their duty. You sir were derelict in yours and I want your resignation. Nothing like a little self-incrimination for ya. As for integrating homosexuals or as I like to call them, mentally derranged sexual deviants, you can't force people to accept it. I personally will refuse to be the direct supervisor of an openly homosexual troop. If you force me to you will see each and every one of them receive piles upon piles of derogatory paperwork. And they will receive a 1 on their EPR.

1MADTSGT, Arkansas

1/11/2011 1:42:13 PM ET
To all you men out there who are so afraid of another dude checking you out out welcome to the world of every woman in the Air Force that YOU make feel uncomfortable when YOU check THEM out. Shut up and stop being hypocrites. Chances are if you can't get a woman to go out with you then no gay man would want you either.

SSgt, Elmo

1/11/2011 12:41:40 PM ET
I have yet to have someone tell me why thinking homosexuality is wrong and disgusting makes me a 'homophobe'. I think the same about sex with children and animals...what does THAT make me? I also find kimchi, raw oysters and collard greens disgusting...do I have a 'phobia' of those too? Or could it simply be that I believe in something and am not so spineless that I lay down and accept whatever is popular at the moment.

Backbone, Florida

1/11/2011 12:16:19 PM ET
Transgenders are next.

Retired MSGT, CO

1/11/2011 11:10:28 AM ET
If homosexuals can openly serve then why cant military personel be open about their religion Why cant they walk around base in uniform holding a bible and wearing a cross Why cant people with disabilities serve Why cant people with weight issues joinMy point being everyone thinks they have the right to join the military as who they are. When in fact to join you have to adhear to the standards. The military has the right to say 'no' if you do not fit the bill. Also I am so tired of being called a 'bigot' or 'narrow minded' for opposing this. If you are calling me a bigot because I will not change my beliefs are you not inturn a bigot.One more thing where in any religion does it say that this is okDADT was fair compromise.

True believer, Fort Worth TX

1/11/2011 10:52:08 AM ET
@JB: Article 125 should and most likely will be changed. Unnatural carnal copulation includes (sexual acts) which probably a vast majority of the force is guilty of committing regardless of their orientation. Yes heterosexuals can and do practice sodomy. Art125 should only be changed though because it does include laws against pedophilia and bestiality which are illegal not because they are unnatural but because they involve parties that are not capable of consenting to the act. That legal standard should be the standard by which we determine our codes of conduct; not a subjective belief on what constitutes unnatural behavior.

Capt S, Missouri

1/11/2011 10:41:22 AM ET
I agree with you "CW." A simple statement but correct. All groups of people have struggled through out our checkered history, but when will we learn? I fear never...

Danny, RAFL

1/11/2011 10:12:18 AM ET
@JM: Why do you think the repeal will lead to those things being allowed? There will still be rules against harrassment and assault, and codes of conduct against misbehavior and inappropriate relationships. Fracturing those will still carry a heavy penalty regardless of the culprit's sexual orientation. The thing is we simply cannot restrict the rights of an entire category of people just because of what we think a few bad apples MIGHT do. Instead, we punish the bad apples WHEN they actually do something wrong. Also, unless you're perfect in practically every way, I'm sure there are other people who find your moral code to be sinfully self-indulgent. It's a good thing we don't base our military policies on subjective moral codes, right?

Capt S, Missouri

1/11/2011 10:01:17 AM ET
Personally I am all for the repeal. The policy just didn't sit well with me and I am heterosexual. All of that is irrelevant now however because the boss says jump and we shall jump.

Analyst, Barksdale

1/11/2011 9:49:28 AM ET
Not everyone is completely professional. Maybe every homosexual won't check people out in the showers but some will. Maybe every homosexual won't hit on people but some will. Just like some enlisted personnel check out officers. I'm tired of hearing that it won't happen because it will. The only reason it hasn't happend till now is because it wasn't allowed to happen. Anyone who says it won't is naive. As a straight conservative man I have a right to be uncomfortable with it. I'm tired of being called barbaric because I believe in a moral code of conduct that is based on more than self indulgence.

JM, FL

1/11/2011 9:20:17 AM ET
I am curious about a few things. With the Don't Ask Don't Tell repeal doesn't that mean policies revert back to the way it was which was, no tolerance, or has there been another law passed in conjuction with the repeal that allows people to serve openly? Will the UCMJ have to be rewritten to remove references to sodomy? Article 125 says any person subject to this chapter who engages in unnatural carnal copulation with another person of the same or opposite sex or sex with an animal is guilty of sodomy. I have never enjoyed having to take homosexual awareness training or homosexual policy training for supervisors. Will the upcoming training also include a heterosexual awareness training?

JB, LA

1/11/2011 9:08:16 AM ET
If you want a lesson in history read through the comments below and replace the word homosexual with colored or other racial epithet of choice and see how the biggoted some of these comments sound. I can about guarantee there were very similar comments made when Pres. Truman desegrated the military back in '40s.

CW, Redstone Arsenal

1/11/2011 2:53:12 AM ET
The repeal of DADT is just another way that the DemocraticLeft WingSocialist's have disrespected the US Military. A means to the end of the Greatest Nation that the Earth has ever seen.

Almost Retired, Kansas

1/11/2011 2:25:20 AM ET
Accepting differences in people is a trademark of a free nation. Certainly it is acceptable to be opposed to someone's lifestyle but as adults and Airmen it should be our responsibility to accept and work together. I am sure I have worked with homosexuals in my time in the Air Force. I have never been faced with an awkward incident or observed mission degredation as a result of hisher lifestyle. Get over your fear Airmen and accept your fellow human.

Marc Leistico, Korea

1/11/2011 2:21:48 AM ET
Nobody is forcing YOU to be homosexual. Why make such a big deal about it Let people live their own lives and let anyone who is willing to die for their country support it. God forbid someone tries to come on to you.

A1C, US

1/11/2011 12:40:08 AM ET
So for all of the people on here working themselves up into a fevered pitch over the repealing of DADT. There was a time when it was thought that allowing women to serve in combat units was a bad idea. Let's go back even further. There was a time when some believed that blacks and whites serving under the same flag as equals would tear the armed forces apart. Hmmmm... last time I checked... the USA still had the number one premiere fighting force in the world.When it comes down to brass tacks the enemy shooting at you from across the way doesn't really care what race gender religion or sexuality you are they wanna kill us all just the same. So that Jew Female or GayLesbian Soldier Airman Marine or Seaman to your right will be your best friend at that moment.Just food for thought...

Braunwyne Frazier, Edwards AFB

1/10/2011 10:32:18 PM ET
I can't say I'm a fan of the repeal however I do believe in equal treatment. Somebody shouldn't be banished just because they are homosexual. Yes it's a sin...but so is adultery and the list goes on. You don't have to like somebody's lifestyle. They can still be a good person. They will be no different when they can admit their difference. Like Capt S alluded to none of us are without sin. NONE. Let's get on with it. For those that will I urge prayer for our senior leaders.

LT, stateside

1/10/2011 10:26:52 PM ET
I will never obey any lawful order of any homosexual in the United States Military. UCMJ or not. Please try me...

Seeing things clearly, ASFOC

1/10/2011 9:39:24 PM ET
You know I have no problems with people being gay. To each his own. I do have an issue with my neighbors in base housing possibly being gay or a woman I'm deployed with being gay. I don't associate myself with it.We have a rule against adultery in the UCMJ which stemmed from the bible which states that this is wrong. Along with the fact that homosexuality is also wrong. We're now allowing gays openly...what's next? I don't fathom that just because they can serve openly now means that they will hit on every single person they can. I'm not homophobic I just don't want to be around it. It's not right. For all of you that claim you're gay and you're religious read the bible again. God may love all of him children but there are some that still don't warrant a ticket through the gates.The states can't even all agree on the fact that this is legal so my one question about benefits. How is a gay couple supposed to be afforded the same benefits as a married man and woman?

A1C B, Yokota AB

1/10/2011 7:21:39 PM ET
relax people enough of the old timer has been mentality. gays serve and always have served proudly. i can still be gay and work on a freakin' jet without a hitch and still have to work with co workers who get dui's and spouses who are unfaithful. have a great air force day

joe mechanic, charleston afb

1/10/2011 6:50:02 PM ET
Yet again our leaders use a frenzy to sneak by another issue under the table. Great you want to be openly homosexual pick up a gun stand a post don't expect any different treatment and keep your ideals in check. NOW lets ask why is our retired community being asked to pay more for health care Is the repeal of DADT really that big of an issue that no one has commented on this increase I could care less who people want to be with what i do care about is that after i serve 20 years of service im going to be asked to pay more for the health care i deserve which problay is in disarray because of that service

TSGT, Nellis AFB

1/10/2011 6:06:02 PM ET
It is really sad to see the same old tired rants about this issue. The excuse about separate quarters and shower facilities is so lame as to be almost beyond description. If you have been to basic training you have showered with someone who is gaylesbian. Nothing happened to you then and nothing will happen after they can openly serve. You are working with someone right now who is gaylesbian guess what they didn't try to pick you up. As long as people are professional in their conduct even after the official repeal of DADT your normal work like in garrison and in the field will not change. You better get used to the fact that no one will be allowed early separation or separate quartersfacilities when it comes into policy. Gates already said exceptions will not be made. So please remember you are a member of the United States Military sworn to uphold the Constitution and follow the lawful orders of those appointed over you. If you can't hack it no one will be holding a gun to your

PM MSgt Ret., Omaha

1/10/2011 5:22:07 PM ET
So me as a Christian man is being told that this is ok and that our Government supports this....So since I find this morally wrong will I be given the chance to retire with full benefits? Why should I be forced to accept them when my religion continues to be outcasted and I am not allowed to openly serve with out offending someone else... ummmmm makes you wonder.

Mike, Tinker

1/10/2011 4:58:55 PM ET
I agree with the last three posts, we've got no room in this AF for bigots. You all know that the training won't be trying to tell you that you must agree with homosexuality, it'll tell you that you have to live with it in your workplace, and you can't discriminate because of it. For my homosexual brothers and sisters in arms, thanks for your service alongside the rest of us. I'm glad you can continue to serve now without fear. We are all Airmen.

S, Beale

1/10/2011 4:56:02 PM ET
American Politics: A bunch of Yes men signing policies and bills to keep their jobs whether they support them or not. That's todays leadership and the ones making decisions for our country. WOW what a joke.

Seeing things clearly, ASFOC

1/10/2011 4:25:00 PM ET
@LWilson: Exactly what core value does this go against? I'm sorry that you can't accept this but I'm sure there are plenty of homosexuals that would be more than happy to take your job and support and defend our country. I'm sure there are plenty of homosexuals ready to take any homophobes' place in the US military. It's too bad that people would want to discriminate to the point of losing their career, but if that's what the homophobes want, then let em do it.

Gini, Alaska

1/10/2011 3:55:43 PM ET
We all agreed to protect and serve, we all have the same end result to do what we have to to keep our country safe. I dont care what your preferences are, but as long as you have my back I will have yours. I didn't grow up judging people on who they loved. As long as they have (loved), we all are better people. We deserve the right to be treated equal no matter what we believe in, what we do and who we love. People, get over the fact that this is the military.... The only thing constant is change. Get used to it.

SY, VA

1/10/2011 3:10:51 PM ET
There are those that hold that it is immoral to drink, wear tight or revealing clothing, PDA, foul language or marry someone of a didfferent race. Should we also exclude those that violate these moral codes from military service? As long as everyone does their job and keeps their private life private, that's all we can ask. Its about inalienable rights. Not subject to someones else's moral subjectivity. Deal with it.

John Szelog, WPAFB Dayton Oh

1/10/2011 3:01:17 PM ET
I can't believe all the homophobics commenting. Our military has had homosexuals in its ranks for decades. Officer and enlisted. You're all assuming that every single homosexual is going to come out of closet and change the way they do their jobs. Our gay/lesbian troops swear to protect the same constitution you do and are doing their job better than some of your other comrades. As for religion, I am a born and raised catholic yet I am a lesbian. I still believe in God and God loves all his children. Grow up people and just accept people for who they are and respect the job they do to defend this great country of ours.

CAO, NM

1/10/2011 2:35:27 PM ET
I encourage all those who have commented against this to retire or seperate. You will not be missed.

Aaron Steigerwalt, Altus AFB OK

1/10/2011 2:12:01 PM ET
Nice to read some steps forward so we can get on and get past this issue also known as mess. Congress voted, the Commander-in-Chief supports it, and now we have to live with it. There are many beliefs that some people in the military still hold onto that others find morally wrong. Yet everyone puts their personal differences/issues aside and accomplishes the mission. This should be no different. Whether a homosexual was in your workspace or in the civilian population, you'll still be defending them, as we military members protect all citizens of this country. There are bigger issues like the military budget to worry about.

SrD, Anchorage AK

1/10/2011 1:54:46 PM ET
To all of you who say homosexuality is a sin and morally wrong, let he who is without sin cast the first stone. I don't remember who said that but I've got a feeling he was pretty important.

Capt S, Missouri

1/10/2011 12:52:54 PM ET
Hundreds of flag officers intended to resign when then Pres. Clinton wanted to do this in the early 90's. DADT was the compromise. What is happening today is just the long delayed outcome of that compromise and the absence of leadership's willingness to walk out this time. There are no doubt a tough couple of years ahead as the DoD gets used to the new it's-ok-now.

Old Retired Guy, San Antonio

1/10/2011 12:23:32 PM ET
As a military member, I'm glad we are finally taking this step toward equality. I'm sick of the bigots and closed/narrow minded individuals who are so narcissistic as to think that they will be admired or even desired by someone of the same gender. Get over yourselves. Not every member of the opposite sex wants you and neither will every same gender person.

Ray, CA

1/10/2011 11:51:06 AM ET
Don't let the comments fool you. The vocal resistance to this policy change is in the documented and significant minority. Food for thought -- if we as Americans can't compromise on this, how can we expect the Ayatollah to compromise with a non-muslim nation?

tr, ok

1/10/2011 11:21:48 AM ET
Besides personal opinions of homosexuality being immoral, an open military will never work. For those who have been deployed, you know what I am talking about. In order for it to ever work, it would require individual living quaters and showering/bathroom facilities in every deployed location. That will never happen due to the cost of it. Otherwise, you may as well have coed facilities. Not to mention the cold hard truth of the ramifications of the extreme homophobic deployed with a now-open homosexual. I wish for once the opinions of the troops would be taken in consideration. If they had been, those in charge would realize the problems this will cause. I love my military, but I am saddened to see the direction it is going and the problems we face in the future.

Kyle Hornbaker, Luke

1/10/2011 11:16:51 AM ET
I would like to call for the resignation of Secretary Gates and Chairman Mullen. If you're going to allow your military to bend to immoral politics then you are not the leaders that this nation needs leading the world's best military.

Dan Troglin, Albuquerque NM

1/9/2011 6:30:24 PM ET
Im glad that they are trying to expedite this process because there surely is going to be some homophobic person out there trying to round up all the (homosexuals) and chuck them out before the 60 days are up. Doing away with this policy is definately a stepping stone to a more just world. My only comment however is why such a big yoolabahoo about training? Just do exactly the same thing you've been doing, because lets face it people, homosexuals have been in the military since the beginning. Its nothing new. Surprising, I know.

D, On the Moon

1/9/2011 12:32:52 PM ET
I just took a Freedom of Religion course. Implementation of this law completely goes against our core values and it could be career impacting for many airmen who conscienciously object to open homosexuality. I for one will not accept any indoctrination advocating the support of homosexuality. Homosexuality is a perversion. There is no other way to look at it. It's wrong on every level, most especially within the military. On this I must speak my conscience.

LWilson, Utah

1/9/2011 2:04:32 AM ET
I sure hope they're working on a re-write of General Order One and the other rules for the CENTCOM AOR. If two gay guys/girls can room together, equity dictates that a guy and a girl should be able to as well.

Jim, Afghanistan

1/9/2011 12:14:11 AM ET
Isolate them in platoons, barracks, etc. Equal but seperate. Your men and women are saying dawdle please.

ALVIN ZIEGELBAUER, BEDFORD TX.

1/8/2011 1:24:31 AM ET
What kind of training will this entail? Trying to convince people that something they believe morally wrong is okay?

buxterright, Elmendorf

1/7/2011 11:03:15 PM ET
This is one of the worst decisions that has ever been cast upon our fighting men and women.

Frey Eugene, Cleburne TX

1/7/2011 7:27:48 PM ET
Oh yeah it's good to be retired, except for that whole increase in TRICARE fees thing Gates wants to implement.

DC, MD

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