Pentagon Set to Ease Policy on Gays in the Military

Gates Expected to Announce Changes to DADT

Gates' announcement will focus on regulatory changes that can be made at the Pentagon without the approval of Congress, which has been debating whether to change the policy.

Well, this is one step. I'm glad to see something is being done. THe announcement is expected on Thursday.

Gates' announcement will focus on regulatory changes that can be made at the Pentagon without the approval of Congress,

wow, more legislation that doesn't need congressional
approval and made by the military. Sounds more like a
dictatorship everyday.

edit to correct spelling

[edit on 24-3-2010 by boondock-saint]

It's about time!

If a gay person wants to be cannon-fodder, who are we to tell him he can't?

The official said one of the changes will be that outings by third parties may no longer be clear grounds for initiating separation proceedings, especially if it is proven that the person making the allegation has a grudge against the military member.

Well, it's definitely a step in the right direction.

Hopefully, the entire "don't ask, don't tell" rule will be scrapped soon.

It's silly, degrading, and downright prejudiced.

Details of Gates' Statement

• The Pentagon will raise the level of the officer authorized to start a fact-finding inquiry or separation proceeding as a result of alleged homosexual conduct to a general or flag officer in the accused service member's chain of command.

• Only a lieutenant colonel, Navy commander or higher ranking officer will be authorized to conduct a fact-finding inquiry.

• Only a general or flag officer in an accused service member's chain of command will be authorized to initiate expulsion proceedings.

More changes at link.