‘THE RIGHT THING TO DO, PERIOD’…. Given the legislative developments from the weekend, I’ve already written at some length about the historic breakthrough of repealing “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” and the groups, leaders, policymakers, and activists who this landmark civil rights achievement possible.
But I’d be remiss if I didn’t note the inspiring signing ceremony held at the White House this morning, the video of which I’ve embedded here.
For those who can’t watch clips from your work computers, President Obama noted before signing the bill, “No longer will our country be denied the service of thousands of patriotic Americans who are forced to leave the military — regardless of their skills, no matter their bravery or their zeal, no matter their years of exemplary performance — because they happen to be gay. No longer will tens of thousands of Americans in uniform be asked to live a lie, or look over their shoulder in order to serve the country that they love.”
He added that he believes “this is the right thing to do for our military. That’s why I believe it is the right thing to do, period.”
The president noted that a transition phase will begin, and has already talked with each of the service chiefs, all of whom are “committed to implementing this change swiftly and efficiently.” Obama went on to vow, “We are not going to be dragging our feet to get this done.”
Of particular interest, clearing up a lingering question, the president also said this morning that he hopes U.S. troops who were discharged under the DADT policy will re-enlist.
At the outset, Obama told an enthusiastic audience, “This is a good day.” I couldn’t agree more.
