Statement on Don't Ask Don't Tell Legislation Message

  • Published
  • By Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates
WASHINGTON --  As you may know, earlier this week Congress began legislative action to change  the "Don't Ask Don't Tell" policy regarding homosexuality in the armed  services. Given the complicated political debate surrounding this issue, I  thought it important for you to hear what this means for you, the men and  women wearing our nation's uniform.

First, the legislative process is long and complex. 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.

Second, the legislation involved is a deferred repeal. In other words, 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 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.

Third, while this process plays out over time, nothing will change in terms of  our current policies and practices. Current law, policies and regulations  remain in place and we are obligated to abide by them as before.

Fourth, the Department of Defense review on this issue that I initiated  earlier this year will continue as before and is more important than ever. This review is charged with conducting the first thorough and fact-based  assessment of the impact of this policy change and developing an  implementation plan that minimizes any possible disruption to the Department's  mission and ongoing operations.

Every man and woman in uniform is a vitally important part of this review. We need to hear from you -- and your families -- so that we can make these  judgments in the most informed and effective manner. So please let us know  how to do this right.

I urge you to stay informed on this process, but do not let the on-going  political debate distract you from what is important - our critical mission to  defend our country and our duty to uphold the values represented by the  uniform you wear.

Thank you for serving and thank you for listening.