Emerging as a forceful, impassioned proponent for repealing the law, [Admiral Mike] Mullen said current policy "doesn't make any sense to me," because it requires troops to lie about their identity while serving for a military that values integrity.[...]
In his testimony, Mullen acknowledged [...] that some troops quoted in the report worry about having to bunk or shower with openly gay troops.
"We'll deal with that," the admiral said. "But I believe, and history tells us, that most of them will put aside personal proclivities for something larger than themselves and for each other."
He added: "There are some for whom this debate is all about gray areas. There is no gray area here. We treat each other with respect, or we find another place to work. Period. That's why I also believe leadership will prove vital."
I'd like to praise Secretary Gates and Admiral Mullen. They've emerged as passionate advocates for the lifting of DADT unlike anyone at the White House; especially the President whose Mr. Spock tendencies seem to have exploded since becoming the Oval One. Fascinating.
I’m glad to read that Admiral Mullen realizes the hypocrisy of the DADT ruling. But I’m not entirely certain that Secretary Gates deserves much praise. From the way I read the WaPo article, the reason he wants Congress to repeal DADT (which is apparently unlikely), is because…
"Those that choose not to act legislatively are rolling the dice that this policy will not be abruptly overturned by the courts."[...]
The Pentagon is increasingly worried that Congress will not act to repeal the military's "don't ask, don't tell" policy, a scenario that defense officials fear would prompt federal courts to intervene and immediately allow gay men and lesbians to serve openly in the armed forces instead of giving the military several months or years to prepare.
In other words, they’d like DADT repealed with the caveat that they have “months or years” to dawdle about before actually dumping it.
....but hey, do what you want....you will anyway.
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