In what Fox News calls “a startling pronouncement,” President-elect Obama is said to be planning to overturn the controversial “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy.
I am not gay, but I am ex-military and I have long and often supported a change in not only how we treat those who want to serve their country—regardless of sexual orientation—but also in how we view our active duty military. A view that sees our troops not as a bunch of morally weak-spined people whose job performance, and even their scruples and ethics will be negatively affected by serving alongside gays, but as the mature, dedicated, tolerant men and women they truly are.
Fox News notes:
The gay community is eager for a quick repeal of “don’t ask, don’t tell,” but fears it could be months before the new administration reaches a consensus with lawmakers and the military. Others think Obama could do it quickly, but is leery of the kind of fallout Bill Clinton faced when he tackled the divisive issue.
I applaud President-elect Obama for the courage to tackle such a “divisive” issue, an issue that will surely bring out fierce opposition, vitriol and ridicule, but one that must be addressed sooner or later, just as we addressed and did the right thing about racial segregation in our military.
