Santa Barbara, Calif. – Admiral Gary Roughead, Chief of Naval Operations, has said that the “time is now” to repeal “don’t ask, don’t tell.”  According to Admiral Roughead: “We made our position on the repeal of ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ clear.  Combat effectiveness is what we provide as a Navy and repeal will neither change who we are or what we do.  The time is right, the time is now, and we will lead a prompt and thoughtful implementation.”  He made his remarks last Friday, January 13 at the 23rd Surface Navy Association National Symposium in Arlington, Virginia.

Aaron Belkin, Palm Center Director, said: “It is important to recognize that as the ink dries on the new statute authorizing repeal of ‘don’t ask, don’t tell,’ the case in favor of allowing gay men and lesbians to serve openly continues.  For almost two decades, opponents of repeal have pointed to close quarters on submarines as the clearest example of why the ban should remain law.  The fact that Naval leadership expects a smooth transition poignantly underscores that the military and the country have moved on, and that repeal will not harm the forces.”