FILE - In this June 13, 2012 file photo, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta testifies on Capitol Hill in Washington. Last summer, gays in the military dared not admit their sexual orientation. This summer, the Pentagon will salute them, marking gay pride month just as it marks other celebrations honoring racial or ethnic groups. Officials said Thursday that they're planning the first-ever event to recognize gay and lesbian troops. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File)
FILE - In this June 13, 2012 file photo, Defense Secretary Leon Panetta testifies on Capitol Hill in Washington. Last summer, gays in the military dared not admit their sexual orientation. This summer, the Pentagon will salute them, marking gay pride month just as it marks other celebrations honoring racial or ethnic groups. Officials said Thursday that they're planning the first-ever event to recognize gay and lesbian troops. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File)
WASHINGTON (AP) ? Defense Secretary Leon Panetta is thanking gay military members for their service, as the Pentagon prepares to mark June as gay pride month with an official salute.
In a video message to the troops Friday, Panetta says that with the repeal last year of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" law that prohibited gays from serving openly in the military, gays and lesbians can now be proud to be in uniform.
Panetta also says he's committed to removing as many barriers as possible to making the military a model of equal opportunity.
Associated Press
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.