The Pentagon will now accept applications from gay recruits, in compliance with a July 6 court order that halted the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy.
The moratorium was issued July 8, but defense official are continuing their preparation for the formal repeal, which would then commence 60 days after he defense secretary and chairman of the Joint Chiefs â┚¬Å”certifyâ┚¬Â that the repeal won’t have a negative effect on military readiness.
According to the Army Times, Former Defense Secretary Robert Gates said he expected certification to occur in late July or early August.
An excerpt from today’s memo: “It remains the policy of the Department of Defense not to ask Service members or applicants about their sexual orientation, to treat all members with dignity and respect, and to ensure maintenance of good order and discipline.”
President Obama signed the repeal in December of 2010.
