The Obama administration on Friday is
expected to certify repeal of “Don't Ask, Don't Tell,” the 1993
law that bans gay and bisexual troops from serving openly.
Various sources are reporting that the
White House received certification from the Pentagon on Thursday and
that President Barack Obama will follow on Friday.
Certification is the last hurdle needed
to scuttle the law that has ended the military careers of more than
13,000 service members.
The policy will officially end sixty
days after certification.
Aubrey Sarvis, executive director of
Servicemembers Legal Defense Network (SLDN), the largest group
lobbying for repeal, welcomed the move.
“This Pentagon certification received
by the White House this afternoon is welcomed by gay and lesbian
service members who have had to serve their country in silence for
far too long,” Sarvis said in a statement. “The troops and the
commanders are ready. Our nation's top military leaders have
testified that commanders see no significant challenges ahead.”
“The official certification to
Congress that the armed forces are prepared for the end of 'Don't
Ask, Don't Tell' should go to Capitol Hill tomorrow with the
president's signature,” he added.