Press releases from the Department of Defense or major news outlets

Pentagon Grants Honorable Discharges to 800 LGBTQ+ Veterans Separated Under 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell'

Oct 15, 2024, 06:30 PM

The Pentagon has granted honorable discharges to more than 800 veterans who were separated from the U.S. military because of their sexual orientation under the 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy. This decision follows a yearlong review of cases involving troops forced to leave the service due to their sexual orientation. The 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' policy, which was in effect from February 1994 to September 2011, prohibited openly gay, lesbian, or bisexual individuals from serving in the military. The upgraded discharges will allow these veterans access to benefits they were previously denied. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin announced the decision, marking significant progress in rectifying the injustices faced by LGBTQ+ servicemembers. Lawmakers, including Rep. Andy Kim and Rep. Jerry Nadler, have praised the Biden-Harris Administration for the move, highlighting the importance of honoring the service of all veterans regardless of their sexual orientation.