The Department of Defense press office has issued a statement on its "don’t ask, don’t tell" policy on sexual orientation in the military saying that those separated under it could and should continue government service.
Those dismissed under the policy "have the opportunity to continue to serve their nation and national security by putting their abilities to use by way of civilian employment with other federal agencies, the Department of Defense, or in the private sector, such as with a government contractor," the statement said.
The Servicemembers Legal Defense Network said it’s the first Pentagon statement encouraging lesbian and gay former military personnel to continue federal careers.
"In its new statement, Pentagon leaders clearly acknowledge that lesbian and gay Americans make important contributions to our national security and that our country is better off when their skills are employed, not turned away," said Steve Ralls, director of communications for SLDN.
