Pentagon to give honorable discharges to some kicked out from 'don't ask, don't tell'
NPR Online NewsOCT 12 2024
The Pentagon has upgraded the service records of over 800 military personnel who were discharged under the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy to honorable discharges, granting them access to previously denied benefits.
The "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, implemented in 1993 and repealed in 2011, allowed LGBTQ troops to serve in the armed forces as long as they didn't disclose their sexual orientation, resulting in approximately 13.5K service members being discharged for breaching the policy.
The Pentagon has claimed that while the "majority" were discharged honorably, nearly 2K had not received "fully honorable characterizations." Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin ordered a review of cases affected by the policy last year, leading to a probe of 851 cases with 96.8% receiving relief.The Pentagon has claimed that while the "majority" were discharged honorably, nearly 2K had not received "fully honorable characterizations." Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin ordered a review of cases affected by the policy last year, leading to a probe of 851 cases, 96.8% of which received relief.
The Pentagon's decision to upgrade discharges is a significant step towards rectifying past discrimination against LGBTQ service members. It acknowledges the injustice of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy and demonstrates a commitment to honoring the service of all troops, regardless of sexual orientation. This move, along with President Biden's pardons, shows progress in addressing historical wrongs and ensuring equal treatment for LGBTQ veterans.
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