Chuck Hagel has directed the National Guard adjutant generals in nine recalcitrant states to fall in line with policy and provide full benefits to same-sex military partners. “Everyone’s rights must be protected,” Hagel said, in an Oct. 31 speech before the Anti-Defamation League in New York. The Defense Department began authorizing full benefits and identification cards for same-sex couples after the Supreme Court declared the Defense of Marriage Act unconstitutional on June 26. Nevertheless, Indiana, Georgia, Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, and West Virginia have refused to adopt the policy change and issue ID cards to same-sex military couples.
