Defense Secretary Robert Gates, who suggested and implemented a year long study into whether it is feasible to repeal Don’t Ask Don’t Tell, made a major move to ease the time period of the study for gay and lesbian soldiers.
He’s changed the terms under which gays and lesbians can be discharged under the policy, a kind of stopgap measure until DADT can be decided. The new rules include things such as a higher ranking officer must be involved, any "overheard" revelations from 3rd parties must be given under oath, and confidential statements made from gay or lesbian soldiers to such persons as clergy and therapists is now protected.
Add to that the following development…
Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said Thursday that Lt. Gen. Benjamin Mixon, who heads Army forces for U.S. Pacific Command, was wrong to call on troops and their families to fight a repeal of the military’s "don’t ask, don’t tell" policy.
Mullen said if uniformed officers disagree with President Barack Obama’s call for a repeal, the answer for them is "to vote with your feet."
This should be a strong indication that the administration is clearly leaning toward at least more protection for our gay and lesbian soldiers.
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