Frontlines: The Latest from OutServe-SLDN

DADT Remains a Clear and Present Danger to Our Patriots

A move by the Air Force late yesterday afternoon underscores why only full repeal this year will end discharges under “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” According to the LA Times, the Air Force is reversing an earlier decision to retain a lesbian officer who made an honest statement about her sexual orientation:

An Air Force general earlier this year concluded that Lt. Robin R. Chaurasiya should not be discharged, saying she had declared her sexual orientation for the purpose of avoiding military service.

But after Chaurasiya spoke publicly about that decision, the Air Force it announced a further review. On Monday, Air Force officials told Chaurasiya that a more senior officer, Gen. Raymond E. Johns Jr., reversed the earlier decision and recommended she be honorably discharged.

Despite recent changes to DADT Instructions, the 66,000 LGBT men and women in uniform are still at risk of being fired. Simple acts or statements can still end a longtime career of decorated service under this law.

For each day DADT is not repealed by Congress, qualified men and women who risk their lives for freedom are denied the opportunity to serve. Our country, and those who defend it, deserve better.

04-20-10 By Paul DeMiglio, Senior Communications Manager |