Wednesday, December 22, 2010
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Albany Herald
Photo by Karie Bradley
President Barack Obama says valor and sacrifice in the armed forces are no longer defined by sexual orientation.
Obama spoke Wednesday morning at the Interior Department as he prepared to sign a landmark law ordering America's armed services to let homosexuals serve openly for the first time. Surrounded by senior military officials and members of Congress, Obama said he is proud to sign the bill, which he says will strengthen national security.
The change won't be immediate, however. The bill requires the military service chiefs to complete implementation plans before lifting the old "don't ask, don't tell" policy -- and certify to lawmakers that it won't damage combat readiness.
More like this story
- Obama administration seeks suspension on "don't ask, don't tell" ruling ( October 20, 2010 )
- High court allows gay military ban for now ( November 12, 2010 )
- Manning's sexual orientation raised in hearing ( December 17, 2011 )
- Walking into future of marriage equality ( June 25, 2012 )
- Navy says chaplains may perform same-sex unions ( May 9, 2011 )
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