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Smith Statement on the Anniversary of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Repeal

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Washington, Sep 20 - House Armed Services Committee Ranking Member Adam Smith (WA-09) released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of the repeal of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy:
 
“One year ago, President Obama officially repealed the discriminatory “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy, allowing lesbian, gay, and bisexual service members to serve openly and honestly for the first time in our nation’s history.  The transition over the last twelve months has been a very successful one.  Our military, and country as a whole, are stronger as a result.  Today, we must recognize and reflect on the significant progress we have made.
 
“There is still more that must be done to reach full equality in the Armed Forces. To that end, Congress must work to pass the Military Spouses Equal Treatment Act – a bill that I have spearheaded that would provide same-sex spouses of service members and veterans the same rights and benefits as their heterosexual counterparts.”